Bunya Forest

Joy is a Queensland-based artist whose creative work is inspired by a long career in nursing, where she supported patients navigating the mental health impacts of illness and trauma. Her experiences have shaped a deep empathy and understanding of the emotional layers that accompany physical suffering. Through painting and mixed media, Joy explores themes of care, resilience, and the human spirit. Art has become a way for her to honour the stories of those she’s cared for, transforming emotion into beauty and reflection. Joy's practice continues to be driven by compassion, curiosity, and a desire to create moments of peace - for herself and those who view her work.

This work draws on my many visits to the Bunya Mountains, where fresh air and expansive landscapes offer a sense of renewal. The forest unfolds like a living tapestry of paths, trees, and wildlife; rich with quiet detail. Fallen logs nurture vibrant fungi, revealing cycles of decay and growth. Immersed in this environment, I reflect on the depth of life within the rainforest, drawing a profound sense of strength and resilience from its enduring presence.