While still in high school I started attending TAFE for one afternoon a week. I realised pretty quickly that I enjoyed painting so much that I decided to enrol three days a week after finishing school.
Over the years, I've had some great teachers and helpers. Having CP means you need some help during the day. I’ve also been really lucky living around the corner from Robert Juniper and benefiting from his advice from time to time. For those of you who don’t know, Robert was an Australian artist, art teacher, illustrator, painter, print maker, and sculptor. To me, he was just Bob: a really cool tall guy who always wore a black waistcoat and hat.
A year or so ago I did a screen printing unit and, as a result, my first design was born: #5. I screen printed #5 on a t-shirt, brought it home, and started getting good comments from friends. Last year was a year from hell concerning my health, so I couldn't go to many classes. Eventually, it sparked a conversation with my dad about setting up my own business. Strange how things work out!
Sadly, my friend Robert Juniper passed away at the beginning of this year. Forever grateful for your help, Bob.
Featured image courtesy of Sculpture By The Sea (2016).
