The Magic Of Art, Friendship & Really Seeing

The Magic of Art, Friendship, and Really Seeing

Art has a beautiful way of connecting people, and I’m lucky enough to be part of a group that proves this every day. A few years ago, a group of us—artists from all around the world—met online. Despite our different backgrounds, styles, and time zones, we instantly clicked. What began as casual conversations about art quickly blossomed into deep friendships that now mean the world to me.

We chat daily via messenger, offering encouragement, ideas, and sometimes just a good laugh. Once a month, we jump on a video call, and honestly, it’s the highlight of our month. These friends are more than just fellow artists—they’re creative soulmates who bring joy not only to my artistic practice but also to my everyday life.

Over the past four years, we’ve shared it all: the wins, the frustrations, the “aha!” moments, and the “I want to throw this canvas out the window” days. We’ve supported each other through personal ups and downs, and we’ve grown together as artists and as people. There’s a certain magic that happens when creative minds come together with mutual respect and genuine care.

One day during a chat, I shared something that had been on my mind. I told them I wanted to talk more about what it really means to see. Not just to look, but to really see—especially in nature. When you pause and truly observe, the colours you notice can be surprising and astonishing. A simple gum leaf isn’t just green; it might hold subtle hues of red, ochre, and even purple. The ocean isn’t just blue—it’s a symphony of turquoises, greys, and golds stirred up by tumbling sand and sunlight.

As someone who often paints alone, it’s easy for my thoughts to wander—sometimes a little too far. I used to think that my observations were maybe a bit... out there. Who else looks at waves and wonders how to mix just the right shade of sea-glass green, or spots burgundy tones in eucalyptus leaves? Surely that’s not normal?

But as I shared these musings with my art friends, I was met with a chorus of “Yes! I do that too!” What a relief—and a joy—to discover I wasn’t alone. Apparently, seeing the world in layers of colour and wondering how to translate it onto canvas is just part of the artist’s brain. And what a wonderful way to experience life.

When you really start to see, the world transforms. Nature becomes a gallery of inspiration. Every leaf, sky, petal, and puddle becomes a study in light and colour, shape and emotion. It’s not just about painting—it’s about connecting more deeply with the world around you.

And in many ways, that’s what this group of friends has helped me do. They’ve reminded me that I’m not alone in the way I see and feel and create. They've helped me embrace my perspective, however “woo woo” it may seem. They’ve shown me that art isn’t just something we do—it’s a way we experience life.

So, here’s to friendship, creativity, and really seeing the beauty that surrounds us. And to the artists—wherever you are—who understand that the world is never just one colour.

My recent trip to the Melbourne Flower & Garden Show with my beautiful art friend Siobhan Jennings (we met online!!!!)