The Story Behind My Seagull Art Print
During my Australian adventure in 2019, I captured some truly magical moments. I was solo backpacking along the East Coast of Australia, trying to build a business, find work, and figure out my life all at once. It was a lot, but it was a life-changing time! I got to appreciate nature and enjoy the little things it offers. I could be present in the moment and simply enjoy being alive as I was living. It was pretty magical.
The Gold Coast Memory
One of my favourite memories from that trip was visiting the Gold Coast. I had met another backpacker in Brisbane, and after we parted ways, she settled down on the Gold Coast. When I ventured there, she took some time off work to show me the area’s more beautiful, quieter side, away from the party scene of Surfers Paradise, where I was staying.
We explored some amazing beaches, and after a long day, we sat on Coolangatta Beach to watch the sunset. We tried to read our books but found ourselves mesmerised by the view instead — watching surfers glide on the waves, the sun setting and casting a golden glow over the high-rise buildings in the distance. Two seagulls perched on a nearby rock looked just as content as we felt, quietly observing the world go by.
Creating the Seagull Print
Inspired by that peaceful moment, I later used one of the photos I took that evening to create an illustration of the seagulls. I wanted it to have a similar vibe to the Kefalonia print I had created around the same time, capturing the calm and quiet beauty of the scene. This piece is one of my favourites — a snapshot of a simple moment that felt so meaningful.
Reflecting in 2025
Looking back on these older pieces as I refresh my blog, I’ve realised just how much these memory-inspired artworks mean to me. They remind me not only of beautiful places and moments but also of how I want to approach my art going forward — creating work inspired by real memories and feelings.
Now that I’m back working full time for the first time since before my solo adventure, I feel a mix of gratitude and longing. I love my new job, and I’m grateful for the stability it brings — I can save towards a better future, which feels wonderful. But there’s a part of me that misses the freedom and adventure of travelling, the peaceful stillness of those days when I was exploring new places and soaking up moments like that sunset on Coolangatta Beach.
When I was travelling, I sometimes got homesick and longed for the security I have now. Now, with that security in place, I find myself craving a little more adventure again—a balance between stability and the spontaneous joy of discovery.
I’m hopeful that my art will continue to reflect this balance: rooted in real life, memories, and moments of peace, but always open to the next adventure.
