PAST WORKS
Below you’ll find an archive of diverse images and words from my extensive travels and explorations, encompassing a wide range of mediums and subject matters. This collection showcases the rich tapestry of my artistic journey, capturing the essence of different cultures, landscapes, and creative expressions that have influenced my work in the past.
Oil Paintings - 2022
My latest work has been oil on canvas, a reaction to a life event that has deeply affected me. The experience has been challenging, and I have found reprieve in expressing my emotions through art. Each painting reflects my inner experiences, channeling them into my paintings. The result is a series of raw, emotional, and deeply personal works.
This is a slice of a deep, wild, big life that I may write about one day, but for now, it is here, in this format. By sharing this intimate part of my journey, I want to connect with others who may have gone through similar experiences and offer comfort and understanding through my art.
I am unafraid to lay bare my innermost thoughts and emotions in my work; my curiosity and openness to new experiences are evident in how I approach my art, constantly pushing myself to try new things and take risks. My work reflects my raw and exposed nature, inviting viewers to connect with me with vulnerability and a desire to explore their emotions. My honesty and authenticity are integral to my artistic process, creating a space for introspection and self-discovery through my art.
“Learning to translate subconscious emotions into Art and communicate them to others takes time. There are many times when others do not see what you are trying to portray. That then becomes the fear of judgment, despair and pain. Being able to learn from this and indeed combine art and emotion that is authentic and vulnerable is to embark on a fascinating journey that for me began when I was seeking deeper meaning in my Art practice: I realized that my journey would have to be a journey of parallels, soul work and art”.
Watercolor - 2020
As an artist, I have devoted myself to the creation of art, although the journey has not always been easy. In my mind, I am cerebral, constantly alert and engaged in deep thinking, analyzing, and over-examining. Painting serves as my escape from this constant mental activity.
For years, I focused on painting circles using various mediums. I created hundreds and thousands of them, all in pursuit of the perfect sphere. This pursuit represented my desire for perfection, wholeness, and control, disguised as "pretty" art. However, deep down, I felt that there was something more profound waiting to be discovered. I recognized the need for further exploration.
To delve into my creative process and overcome my blockages, I embarked on a journey of therapy. This experience proved to be rich, soulful, complex, and challenging, precisely what I required at that moment.
During this transformative period, I allowed myself to experiment with watercolour, a medium I had previously avoided due to its unpredictability and lack of control, which conflicted with my pursuit of "perfect pretty" art. As I embraced watercolour, my authentic self started to emerge. It felt as if my hand moved independently, guided by an intuitive and uninhibited flow.
Through watercolour, I surrendered to the vulnerability of expressing my inner self. This act of surrender mirrored the surrender required in therapy. I had always viewed the world in black and white, struggling to hold opposing viewpoints simultaneously. In my mind, things were either good or bad, and I was either one thing or another. However, a profound question arose: What if it wasn't "or"? What if it was "and"? This epiphany became the turning point in my artistic journey. I realized that my work could be both confined and freeing, no longer limited to one extreme or the other.
The parallel between my inner self-discovery and my artwork became evident. The spiritual alchemy I experienced, the transformative journey I embarked on, and my conscious effort to liberate myself from destructive personality patterns found their expression through watercolour.
Watercolour allowed me to release the need for perfection. It became a medium through which my mind and hand could be liberated, unrestricted by preconceived notions. It embraced imperfections and spontaneity.
Watercolour has become an integral part of my artistic identity for now. It embodies the current stage of my journey as an artist, embracing both confinement and freedom, and celebrating the acceptance of all aspects of myself, even the less appealing ones.
Cuba - 2018
In 2018, I embarked on a trip to Cuba without any preconceived expectations. Little did I know that this journey would ignite my imagination and immerse me in the captivating allure of Havana, the country's capital. Havana's vibrant streets and its rich, colorful history fascinated me beyond measure. During my stay in a Casa Particular in Havana Vieja, a particular sight caught my attention—an exquisitely crafted rose-stained window. Its intricate design became etched in my memory, intertwining with the Cuban landscape that unfolded before me.
As I wandered the streets, all I could see was the image of that window enmeshed within the Cuban landscape. The photos developed from the juxtaposition of the streets and historic cars overlayed with the intricacy of the rose windows and the extravagance of 24-carat gold leaf detailing, which incorporates another layer of texture and richness. The combination of grit, earthiness and old American cars was unlike anything I had ever experienced.
Upon returning to Melbourne, I felt a deep desire to print these images in a way that would reflect the depth of textures, moods, and energy that had moved me. I decided on a linen fabric for its organic feel and began working on various layers, combining the elements of Cuba that had touched my heart. Although it has been a complicated process, I believe the vision has been achieved to combine the earthiness and rawness of the historic landscape with the blooming of vibrant flowers, for a new beginning and resurgence for Cuba and its people. The result has been worth the effort. Cuba is now a part of my life.
India & Morocco - 2013 & 2015
Embarking on an enchanting journey through India and Morocco, with a personal connection to the latter, my photography unveils diverse cultures, landscapes, and traditions. As my mother was born and raised in Meknes, Morocco, the country holds a special place in my heart. Its ancient cities like Marrakech and Fez offer intricate architecture and bustling souks, allowing me to be part of the people for a split second through my lens. I am fascinated with the individuals and captivated by the diversity of faces, loving the opportunity to witness their lives and stories through my photographs. The warmth of both lands welcomes me into their lives—a reflection of the human spirit and our world's beauty.
Collection of inspiration and exploration of artistry
Collage
When I immerse myself in the world of collage-making, a delightful blend of quirkiness, fun, and richness emerges within my creations. It's as if these elements come alive, infusing my artwork with an irresistible charm. I eagerly gather an eclectic assortment of materials, from whimsical magazine cutouts to vibrant fabric scraps, each holding its unique story. With scissors in hand, I embark on a playful adventure, carefully selecting and arranging these treasures to form a captivating visual tapestry. The process is a joyful exploration of colours, patterns, and textures, where unexpected combinations take shape, and new narratives unfold. My collages reflect my singular perspective, inviting viewers to step into a world where the rules are rewritten, and imagination knows no bounds. With every collage I create, I revel in the vibrant energy that comes from embracing the unconventional, infusing my work with a touch of whimsy that brings a smile to the faces of those who encounter it.