About me
What began as simple doodles has grown into a passion I never imagined would shape so much of my life. Over the years, my creative journey has blossomed from casual sketches into large oil paintings, each piece a reflection of the path I’ve walked.
Today, I juggle the beautiful chaos of being a busy mum of four, a part-time vet, and a dedicated artist growing my own art business. It hasn’t always been easy, but every brushstroke and quiet moment in the studio is a reminder of how far I’ve come—and how much more there is to explore.
Hope you enjoy my we story below.
How it all began
From early beginnings
Before I could even walk, I had a crayon in my hand and paper in front of me. I would happily sit for hours, completely absorbed in drawing. Although life, and all the expectations that come with it, eventually took over, that creative spark never left me. It’s always been there, just beneath the surface.
Even during my university years, my notebooks were filled with colourful doodles in the margins. Before I found my way back to painting, I explored creativity in many other forms, making wreaths from silk, crocheted, and real flowers, quilting blankets, crafting textile-based artwork, and even painting stones. Making things with my hands has always been a way for me to express myself and stay connected to that part of me that loves to create.
So when did I start painting?
It wasn’t until a particularly stressful period in the summer of 2017 that I realised I needed to do something just for myself. One afternoon, on the edge of burnout, I knew I had to find an outlet, a way to reconnect with myself and find some calm. That’s when I gave way to the pull towards creativity. I craved a quiet space for my mind, so I picked up a brush and started painting, just for a couple of hours a week.
In those moments, it was just me, the paint, and the brush. Nothing else mattered. It became my sanctuary, something that kept me grounded and brought a sense of peace I hadn’t felt in a long time. From that point on, I haven’t stopped painting.
To lose myself in the process, to make a mess, explore colour, and create without rules, is a source of pure joy. There’s also a deep personal connection for me; I often use my late mother’s watercolours and brushes, and when I paint with them, I feel close to her again. Painting has become much more than a practice, it’s a part of me.
Stories told with brush strokes.
I work with a wide range of materials, oils, inks, watercolours, charcoal, pastels, acrylics, mixed media, pencils, really, if you can make a mess with it, I’ll paint with it. That said, I do have a particular love for oils, inks, and watercolours—they have a fluidity and depth that I find endlessly inspiring.
My creative journey began in the spare bedroom, which quickly transformed into a chaotic hub of paint, paper, and canvases. It didn’t take long before my artistic overflow started creeping into the rest of the house. I think it was a unanimous family decision to gently nudge me out into my studio pod, which has since become my creative sanctuary. If I’m not in the house, chances are I’m out there, completely lost in the process of making something new.
And there you have it
From simple doodles to large oil paintings, my creative journey has grown in ways I never imagined. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without the encouragement and support of my family and friends, they’ve believed in me from the start, and that means everything.
I’ve been genuinely touched and overwhelmed by the kind words and enthusiasm from those who stop by my table at artisan markets or visit me in my studio. Your support, conversations, and appreciation for my work inspire me more than I can say. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
Journey of Inspiration
Discover original art, prints, cards, and accessories featuring my unique designs. Each piece is created with care and inspired by the beauty of nature, the sea, colour, and emotion.
I’m also happy to take on commissions—if you have something special in mind, feel free to get in touch.
Through Petra Art, I share not just artwork, but a journey—one that reflects my connection to the world around me and the feelings it evokes. I invite you to explore and find pieces that speak to you.
Thank you for visiting.