I grew up on a grazing property in the West Wimmera of Victoria in a conservative environment where pursuing a career as an artist was far from the obvious path. I attended boarding school, and art became a steady anchor during those formative years. It gave me a sense of identity and expression when I often felt quite alone. That early experience shaped not only my career but also my belief in the power of creativity to empower young people.

I studied graphic design before completing a Fine Art degree with Honours in painting, followed by a Masters in Public Art. My Masters expanded my thinking beyond the canvas and connected me with an extraordinary network of creatives, architects and arts professionals. Around that time I founded and operated a gallery space in Fitzroy, curating exhibitions with emerging artists. It strengthened my understanding of the arts ecosystem and confirmed my instinct to build opportunities rather than wait for them.

A pivotal moment came when I underwent surgery for a brain tumour at the end of my Masters. It brought clarity and urgency. After recovering, I returned to my practice with renewed focus and determination. Since then my work has expanded into large scale public art, international projects and collaborations with leading designers and architects. Today I continue to evolve my practice alongside my creative partner and husband, Geoffrey Carran, while remaining deeply committed to using art as a vehicle for connection, confidence and creative agency.

I live on the coast with my husband Geoffrey, our children Finley and Summer, and our dog Captain. The bush and the ocean shape our daily rhythm, and that sense of openness and movement naturally filters into my work.

Colour sits at the heart of my practice. Painting is an immersive and physical process for me. Ideas evolve through action. The simple act of beginning is often what unlocks the work. I am drawn to bold gestures, layered movement and the energy that builds as a painting develops.

I am inspired by possibility and expansion. I am interested in extending painting beyond traditional boundaries into public spaces, architecture, design collaborations and educational environments. Working with young people has become an important part of my practice. I have seen how creative expression can build confidence and self belief. That understanding continues to drive me. I am motivated by the connections art fosters and the way it can open doors for others, just as it did for me.

I hope my work creates lasting emotional resonance. Recently a couple contacted me about a painting I made for them over twenty years ago. It is still hanging in their home, still cherished. The idea that a work can continue to shape a space and someone’s daily experience long after it leaves my studio is incredibly meaningful.

On an individual level I hope my paintings uplift, energise and shift something in the viewer. Even a subtle change in mood or perspective matters. In public settings I am fascinated by how art can transform environments at scale. A mural, installation or textile work can activate a space and influence how people feel within it.

For young people especially, I hope my work demonstrates that creativity is not an indulgence but a powerful and legitimate path. If a student encounters one of my works and feels encouraged to pursue their own ideas more boldly, then that is deeply rewarding. Ultimately I want my work to create connection to place, to identity and to possibility.