How do you navigate the tension between control and surrender in creation?
Surrender is key. Letting go allows me to fully immerse myself in the work and enter a flow state. That’s where the magic happens - being present, channeling, and feeling free in the moment. It takes practice, but moving from the head into the heart is everything.


How do you decide when a piece is “finished”?
I don’t think a piece is ever truly finished—our style is always evolving. But in the moment, when it feels resolved, there’s a sense of peace in setting it free into the world.

Is there another artist or artwork that has been influential on your practice?

Many! Early Australian artists like Arthur Boyd, Brett Whiteley, and Joy Hester captivated me, as have contemporary artists like Del Kathryn Barton. Chegals’ dreamscapes are perfection, and Frida Kahlo’s fearlessness is endlessly inspiring.

Mark Rothko also had a profound impact—standing in a dark room at London’s Tate Modern, I was moved to tears by the subtle power of his colours and compositions. Picasso’s line work has influenced me too—I call myself “Bricasso,” haha!

Can art exist without emotion, or is feeling essential?

Emotion is essential. Art without feeling would be so dull. For me, emotion is what gives work its power and resonance. If it’s devoid of feeling, I don’t want a bar of it!