And I Will Give You Rest

We went on a holiday recently, to the beautiful south coast, and on the first day we all felt off kilter.
Before we left we farewelled a much loved teacher of the boys. She called the students her kids, and they felt the love and care she offered so incredibly deeply. The world felt different without her in it.
Our first day of the holiday nothing seemed right. I was in pain from sitting too long, the place we stayed was not as expected, work was still weighing us down and we were feeling the loss of Mrs D.
As we swam in this gorgeous water, I was acutely aware of, and disappointed by, the fact that we take our pain and problems with us (without the comfort and distractions of home).
Interestingly though, it enabled us to sit with our pain (and not escape it) in a place that slowly allowed some peace. As we walked on the beach and through the bush daily, as we kayaked, as we swam, the sharp edges slowly softened. I was reminded of sea glass that is pummelled and tossed and turned in the sea and eventually becomes smooth.
This place, this beauty given to us by God, allowed us to soften the edges of our pain so that it felt easier and safer to handle.
Matt 11:28 Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

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Kim’s art is her personal diary; her art is deeply influenced by her everyday life experiences. She would like to highlight the exceptional in the ordinary; to point out and acknowledge the beauty, depth and complexity of this extraordinary planet, often overlooked.

Kim’s various physical and mental health challenges have empowered her to think deeply about life; to delve into what matters, and where and how to find hope in despair.

While realism is a common theme in her art, she enjoys the freedom to be more abstract at times. She uses the term “abstractish”, combining elements of abstract art with detailed or realistic techniques. Additionally, Kim enjoys hiding things or details in her paintings, for those who invest the time to explore her art.

While Kim studied a Bachelor of Applied Science at university, art always held a grip on her. Based on the encouragement of her Year 7 art teacher - “she has something,” Kim, chose art over Latin in her formative years of schooling. In her senior years, she studied advanced art, and contemplated a career as an Art Restorer, but eventually settled on Exercise Physiology; never considering a full-time art career.

After she had her first child, art was a way to process the physical and emotional difficulties life presented. Over time this developed into a way of managing the demands of life.

Since then, her art has developed from personal fulfilment into a career. She acknowledges that this is only possible through the grace of God, and the support and encouragement of her family and friends. Without her husband Daniel (and parents) encouraging her and giving her the space and time to paint, she wouldn’t be able to do this. Without family and friends, who have believed in her, gave advice and those who bought art in the early stages, she wouldn’t be where she is today.

Her art is sold through various online platforms and has now travelled to many states of Australia, and soon America.

Hornsby Hospital has recently commissioned one of her paintings; enlarged and displayed, along with another of her paintings, in the freshly completed 265 million dollar upgrade. A local Public School enjoys one of Kim’s large murals on one of its office buildings, and children are encouraged to find the many animals hidden in the painting. A variety of businesses have commissioned her art to be enjoyed by staff and clients alike.