Why Hanla?

'Hanla’ was the nickname given to me by friends whilst studying at the University of Sydney and living on campus. Since then, it has remained a name that both my friends and sisters use on occasion, always when the collective mood is one of buoyancy and fun.

I have always been a lover of interior design and decoration but since having children, my style has shifted dramatically in favour of colour, a sense of playfulness and unexpected harmonies. It is within this style that my paintings are inspired and so developing a business idea for Hanla Art, the cheeriness I associate with this nickname felt like a good fit for the feeling I want to create through my work.

What inspires Hanla?

As far as the content of my paintings go, there are sooo many things that inspire me, more than I will ever be able to paint I think. At least until the kids are in school (maybe). Landscapes, textiles and homewares would have to be my big three- and they are pretty huge categories!! My current study of interior design is also a big source of inspiration at the moment, I’m coming to understand that the appearance of paint on my canvases has been the product of a very subconscious artistic process up until recently. My planning in the lead up to painting is now much more deliberate and focused as a result.

What to put on a canvas hasn’t been the only task requiring inspiration in recent years. Finding the courage to call myself an artist, immerse myself in interior design and leave behind a successful career has also required a good deal of inspiration and support! I’ve definitely been inspired by the myriad of other mums/creatives I follow on instagram and spurred on by my children - the desire to set an example by doing something I love (something my husband has exemplified for many years now) has been a great motivator!