Observation is key to my work. Drawing and taking photos are both a very important part of my practice. They centre me and bring clarity, perspective, reference and inspiration. To observe something is to really get to know it.

For me, the joy of life is in the detail. In the detail you will find Wonder and Curiosity are the most faithful friends. The stress and turmoil of the outside world recedes for a moment and harmony, beauty and peace envelop. Therapy and a way of life in one.

My process of observation also offers me a wonderful, unpolitical, uncomplicated, genuine way to make Australia home. Born an English-speaking fourth generation white South African who was immigrated to Australia as a child, I have always been told that the land I was/am living on, belongs to someone else. I hold no malice. I accept it for what it is. I had no input or control over where or what I was born as and I have a deep respect and appreciation for all indigenous people and their connection to the land of their ancestors. Where humans are concerned - I am a guest on whatever land I choose to call home.

However - where the natural world is concerned - in the bush, by the sea, in the mountains …. amongst the trees, the birds, the flowers, the large and small critters getting about their every day … I AM home. And the appreciation, motivation and joy of my work comes from THAT place.