As a landscape painter living in Hobart, Tasmania, much of my time is spent immersed in my studio, where I bring the breathtaking scenery of this unique part of the world to life on canvas. But when I’m not working, my spare time is just as vital to who I am as an artist and as a person. It’s a blend of restful simplicity, creativity, and connection with nature and loved ones.
My Happy Place: The Studio
It might seem unconventional, but my studio is far more than a workspace - it’s my sanctuary. Even when I’m not actively painting, I love to spend time there. It’s where I feel most relaxed and inspired. That said, the process of painting can sometimes be challenging or frustrating. Not every day flows smoothly, but the joy and satisfaction that come from creating art make it my favourite place to be.
Pottering at Home
Outside of the studio, I’m very much a homebody. There’s something deeply satisfying about pottering around the house. I enjoy decluttering, tidying, and making small improvements here and there. These little tasks, though mundane, feel grounding and therapeutic.
I also love to read or curl up with a good series when I have the chance. The simple act of unwinding with a book or show often sparks ideas or gives my creative mind the rest it needs to keep working at its best.
And then there’s coffee. Making good coffee is almost an art form in itself, and I take great pleasure in perfecting my brew. Cooking, too, is something I enjoy when time allows, as it lets me explore creativity in a completely different way.
The Quiet Joys of Nature
Home isn’t just about the indoors. I’m lucky to live in a quiet, peaceful area surrounded by nature. My Leonberger dog, Oscar, is my companion in these moments of tranquillity. On sunny days, we’ll often snooze together on the deck, soaking up the warmth. Short walks with Oscar around the nearby bush trails are another highlight of my day.
Nature is a constant source of inspiration for my work, and even during these relaxing walks, I find myself absorbing the textures, colours, and patterns around me. It’s like collecting mental snapshots for future paintings.
When the mood strikes, my husband Steve and I head out for longer walks. Living about a third of the way up Mount Wellington, we’re spoiled for choice with trails offering spectacular views and a sense of serenity that’s hard to match.
Coffee and Connection
Speaking of Steve, coffee dates with him are one of my favourite things. We’re both passionate about good coffee, and we’ll often venture into Hobart, particularly the Salamanca area, to explore different cafés. It’s not just about the coffee; it’s about taking the time to connect and enjoy each other’s company outside of our usual routines.
A Love for Travel
Every 18 months or so, I make a big overseas trip to visit my family in Jersey and England. These visits are deeply restorative for me. When I’m there, I step completely away from painting and immerse myself in time with loved ones. This break from art isn’t a loss - it’s a way to refill my emotional and creative cup.
While I treasure these visits, I also dream of more travel with Steve in the future. There’s so much of the world we want to explore together, and I find that seeing new places always feeds my creativity in unexpected ways.
The Simple Pleasures
The truth is, I don’t need extravagant experiences to feel fulfilled. I find joy in life’s simple pleasures - walking along the beach, occasionally swimming in the sea, or just being present with the people I love.
Even when I’m not actively painting, my mind is often swirling with ideas sparked by the natural world around me. I might see the way light falls on a rock or the texture of tree bark and instantly think of how I’d translate it onto canvas. Taking breaks from the studio isn’t about leaving art behind; it’s about nurturing the creative process from a fresh perspective.
Balancing Rest and Creativity
In my downtime, I’ve learned to embrace the importance of rest. Slowing down doesn’t mean stopping - it means recharging. These quiet moments give me the energy and inspiration to return to my work with a clear mind and renewed enthusiasm.
Ultimately, my spare time isn’t about escaping my identity as an artist - it’s about enriching it. Whether I’m pottering around the house, walking with Oscar, enjoying Hobart with Steve, or travelling abroad, these activities feed my soul and, by extension, my art.
Life as an artist isn’t just about what happens in the studio. It’s about the little moments, connections, and joy in the everyday. For me, these simple, genuine experiences make life - and my art - full of meaning.
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