I was fortunate to grow up beside the Brisbane River, experiencing being surrounded by nature and fascinated by the wildlife that I saw every day. Majestic Sea Eagles gliding through early morning mist on the river, echidnas trundling through the bush and fireflies winking as evening descended. My days were spent on horseback exploring the nearby bushland, creeks and paths by the river,  always finding a new adventure out in the bush. I grew up drawing and painting everything I saw, and wanted to learn more about the animals and environments I encountered on my travels. 

 

Completing a​ Bachelor of Applied Science in Natural Systems and Wildlife Management at the University of Queensland deepened and refined my knowledge and understanding of the environments and wildlife I encountered. This complemented my love of detail and accuracy in my paintings. I sought opportunities to join with researchers in the field, and began to develop my passion for capturing endangered species in my paintings. By combining my scientific knowledge with my artistic experience, I convey the beauty and essence of each animal and its habitat while highlighting the importance of protecting our wildlife.

 

My passion to learn more about and protect endangered species has taken me on many exciting journeys, and my artwork reflects my growing understanding and love of these animals and places they are found. 

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I have travelled to some very special places in the world, including the spectacularly beautiful country of Namibia, Africa to travel with local wildlife protection groups to study and learn more about the endangered Black Rhino. Experiences such as the sight of a black rhino running over the hot, dry and deep red desert rocks of Namibia, and waking up in the middle of the night while camping in a dry riverbed with a herd of wild elephants feeding on the trees around me, were unforgettable.

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With my husband, I lived for a year in the gloriously beautiful British Columbia in Canada. We started in Oak Bay, at the southern end of Vancouver Island, a wonderful introduction to our life in Canada. We then travelled to the north of British Columbia and experienced a Canadian winter. Cross country skiing, hiking through snowy mountains, experiencing the incredible wildlife such as bear, moose and wolves, was fascinating. The sight of the northern lights shimmering across the midnight sky in the middle of a dark, snowy forest was an absolute highlight. 

 

Every place I travel remains with me. However, my love for Australia's landscapes and wildlife remains my greatest source of inspiration. I have spent years travelling throughout parts of Queensland and New South Wales  searching for endangered species. I have many paintings to create, and I truly look forward to experiencing more of our wild places in our beautiful country. 

 

Thank you for joining me on my travels. I look forward to sharing my adventures with you. 

 

Michelle 

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