Born in Finland and raised in Australia, I always had a passion for art. Rainy days meant drawing, making paper dolls, and devouring colouring-in books.
As I had no memory of what Finland was like, apart from the occasional postcard from relatives there, I had a yearning to return to the country of my birth "when I grew up".
That dream was realised after graduating from High School, when I took a sabatical year between studies to work and travel, spending 3 months back in the country of a thousand lakes (188,000 to be precise!) and the land of the midnight sun.
The beauty of Finland's forests and lakes inspired me to pursue a professional career in in the visual Arts, so upon my return I enrolled in a practical art course at Dandenong's TAFE college. In 1992 I graduated with an Advanced Certificate in Art and Design, with a major in Photography and minor in Illustration. And no job.

After years of "working for the man" in the public service, and with 2 children approaching school age, I decided it was again my time to return to my first love: Art.

I took another sabatical year between my part time job in retail (at the time) and what I do now, to establish myself as an Artist.

I stepped out of my comfort zone and started networking with other artists and community arts organisations, had a few exhibitions - my first solo exhibition (Into the Woods) was at Wyndham Cultural Centre, and was hailed a success, selling half of the pieces on show.

I have continued to enjoy the creative arts in my current role as a Social Support Worker for the Finnish Friendly Visiting Service (FFVS) Inc, which runs a weekly activity group and social support service for elderly and potentially socially isolated Finns and their carers.  Art workshops, musical singalongs, trips to exhibitions with the clients and above all, a successful intergenerational mural painting project funded by Hobsons Bay City Council was proof that I had made some really great choices in life, and hope that I can inspire others to do the same and follow their passions!

So, take a wander around my photo gallery, and if you are interested in anything or simply want to comment or provide feedback, please don't hesitate to contact me. I am open to requests for portraits, commissioned artwork for your home or workplace, illustrations or even greeting cards.