I hadn’t painted since high school, I enrolled in an Albany Summer School course five x half day of Oil Painting, I liked it but didn’t love it, shoved the paint kit in the back of a cupboard.

Four years later I read an article in the Plantagenet News for a beginner oil painting class on Tuesday evenings needing a minimum of four. I’ve always thought of myself as a resident of the Great Southern, I could be in Mt Barker on Tuesday evenings, so I call and put my name down.

I had met the interesting artist during his first Art & Craft Trail open backyard studio. I thought I knew what to expect, I was wrong. Barry Mackie turned out to be my kind of teacher, a guide, sharing his enthusiasm for his craft, the tips and hints from years of painting, but always, even after ‘some’ discussion, letting us keep our own style.

I loved it all, the crazy Tuesday ladies, the odd nights were as much red wine was imbibed and cheese savoured, as paint painted, and always laughter.

But above all I love the inner quiet, immersion and enjoyment as I concentrate on spreading oil around my canvas, building errors into beautiful texture, layering it up till it’s just how I wanted it or how I never expected it.

I am undeniably devoted now, painting in my home studio and an open studio in Mt Barker. I’m so happy to share my work and hope my paintings at the very least make you smile …..

Follow my journey!