Biography

Illustration has always been a part of who I am. My inspiration for capturing nature’s beauty all began when I was a child. I remember playing in my backyard, collecting flowers and catching butterflies. Every day was a great adventure. My passion for admiring nature developed into a hobby as a child, I would provide rehabilitation for sick and injured animals. I volunteered to work as a carer for WIRES (Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service) where I had the opportunity to work closely with Vets and vet nurses.

After graduating highschool in 2003, I went onto study an Advanced Diploma in Fine Arts at Tafe. At tafe I was mentored by a South African Printmaker, by the name of Falaka Armide Yimer who taught me skills in woodblock carving and drawing. Thereafter, I continued to produce paintings, and started to sell work through café’s, exhibitions and competitions.

In 2012, I decided to refine my artistic skills and pursue a Degree in Natural History Illustration at Newcastle University, where I was mentored by Dr.Trevor Weekes and Dr. Andrew Howells. It was there that I developed my own distinctive style as an illustrator and learnt drawing and colour skills in Scientific, Medical, and Wildlife illustration.

After graduating from University in 2015, I moved up to Far North Queensland. During my stay in Cairns I spent most of my time producing a collection of works inspired by the animals, insects and plants of tropical Far North Queensland.  As an illustrator I use drawing as a form of communication, to inspire and portray the beauty and character trait of what I see in a particular animal whether it be quirky, inquisitive or intelligent.