Kate Waanders

I am a self-taught artist who began painting in 2016 at the age of 51.
I live in Traralgon, Victoria, Australia.

Several trips overseas including visits to art galleries and museums renewed my interest in art, particularly still life. A still life painting by Henk Helmantel in Rembrandt house in Amsterdam stood out. To me it felt beautiful and alive.

Since I started painting in 2016, my palette has broadened, and I like to choose the shortest path to reaching a desired colour. I decided to put all my efforts towards learning to paint after many years of being creative via various other hand crafts. One way or another I have always had a need to create and indulge in colour, shape and texture.



I entered a few art shows, some with award winning outcomes, sold some paintings and was approached by art galleries. In 2021 I decided to take extended leave from my job as a business manager and devote all my time to painting.



My painting style is realistic, focusing on still life. Sometimes there is some link or story that connects the objects or animals in my art. Other times the connection or reason for their presence in my art is simply form, colour and texture. I don’t feel that artwork necessarily must convey a deeper meaning. Sometimes people see a story that is altogether different from mine, or they see a meaning in a painting that I had not even considered. I guess that is what makes it so much fun. Occasionally I get feedback from clients that is straight from the heart: A painting that reminds them of an event in their life, that triggers a memory, a window into the past. I believe that my painting journey has only just begun, and I look forward to further learn and improve my painting skills in years to come.