How would you describe your practice in 5 words? 

Experimental, intuitive, joyful, disciplined, PLR (practice led research).

What does a day in the studio encompass? 

A day in the studio begins with music. I pull up the blind and let the daylight in before I check the work on the bench from the previous session. I turn the music up and I have a little dance while looking at the work – really studying it, looking at the details and nuances. I hang it up and look from across the room – asking myself if it’s finished, needs work, space or time. I set up my bench and make a cup of tea (one of many consumed while making), while the music is immersing me into my own world. And that’s when the real joy begins. I get right in there and lost in the paint, ink, tools and materials. I like to call it my ‘head to heart to hand place’ where nothing but me and what I’m doing exists. 

Is there an artistic medium you’re wanting to, but are yet to try? 

Ahhh, yes. I am currently completing my addition to the 2025 Helpmann Stobie Pole Project that has an aluminium element. My practice includes copperplate, aluminium and steel etching.  So, I am keen to try some sculptural metal work – like all things welding. Many years ago, during my diploma of theatre making studies at A.C. Arts, I took a subject in basic welding, metal shaping and bending. I loved everything about it. The smell. The sounds. The concentration needed. The physicality but also the thinking involved. I’d like to give this a go in a more artistic way, and this is top of my list of things to pursue next year.  

Which South Australian artists do you admire? 

There are so many, but I can’t go past Ann Newmarch. I’ve lost count of the number of artists I’ve met who were either taught by Ann or attended a workshop in her Prospect studio. I grew up in Prospect, a street over from Ann.  When I was in primary school, I saw her in the nearby streets painting murals and stobie poles. When I was older, I later realised who she was, what a big deal she is and to have witnessed her in action – just wow. It had a huge impact on me even then. As an adult, I was chuffed to have had the opportunity to share this with her.  

Why have you pursued a creative career? 

From a very early age, art has been my passion. I have been creating in one way or another my entire life whether it be in school, in jobs such as cheffing or as a scenic artist for theatre and opera. Art regulates me. Keeps me sane. It’s why I get up every day. After years of working in the arts I have reached a time where I can dedicate myself fully to studying and practicing. I’ve had to make sacrifices and adjust to a simpler lifestyle but honestly, I don’t want to do anything but create and so it doesn’t feel like I’m missing out on anything – more like I have gained so much. In my creativity I thrive, and I feel I add value to community through reciprocal actions of giving, taking, learning and sharing. This is who I am, and I love it.