About Me

Hello! I am a contemporary artist and educator working from my home studio in Maroubra, nestled in Sydney’s beautiful Eastern Suburbs. My art is a celebration of the sun-drenched Australian coastline, the warmth of the local community, and the simple, nostalgic joys of everyday life.

Through light-filled landscapes, intuitive abstracts, and quiet watercolours, I translate cherished memories and local scenery into vibrant, tactile canvases.

My Creative Journey: From West to East

While my art today is deeply inspired by the ocean, my roots began far from the coast. I was born in the Philippines, grew up out in Campbelltown, and it was in Western Sydney that I completed my teacher training and spent the early years of my career in the classroom. This vibrant, diverse region shaped my perspective both as an educator and a creator before I eventually moved across the city and called the Eastern Suburbs home.

For over 25 years, my world revolved around nurturing creativity in others as a classroom teacher and Visual Arts educator within NSW Public Schools. While I have been a lifelong maker, it wasn't until 2021 that I took the leap to focus fully on my own independent art practice. What began as a deeply personal creative outlet quickly resonated with the community. Today, I am incredibly grateful to paint every day, sending original artworks and limited-edition fine art prints to private collections right across Australia and Internationally.

Inspiration & Process

Living by the ocean, I am endlessly inspired by the unique coastal light of places like Coogee, Clovelly, Maroubra, and Bronte. I am captivated by the soft shifts of sunrise, the warmth of the afternoon golden hour, and the twilight pink skies that settle over the water.

My work often explores themes of nostalgia and connection. Whether I am capturing a bustling local landmark, reflecting on my upbringing, or painting an intuitive, layered abstract, my goal is to evoke the feeling of long summer days, family gatherings, and the shared spaces that bring us together. I flow between acrylics, mixed media, and watercolour, letting the mood of the piece dictate the medium.

Awards & Achievements

I am proud to be an active part of the Sydney art community. Some of my recent exhibition highlights and accolades include:

2026 Sydney Royal Easter Show: 2nd Place, Figurative Painting ('Meet Me At the Rollarena')
2026 Randwick Art Society Exhibition: Commended Abstract (‘Transit Glow’)
2026 Burwood Art Prize: Finalist ('Cousins Assemble!')
2025 Randwick Art Society Exhibition: Winner of the Miniature Prize ('Coogee Playground')
2025 Burwood Art Prize: Finalist ('Have A Rice Day')
2025 Waverley Woollahra Art School 9x5 Landscape Prize: Finalist ('Bronte Dusk')
2024 Randwick International Women's Art Prize: Winner, Portraiture Category

Let's Connect

When I am not in the studio with paint on my hands, you can usually find me walking along the coast, enjoying our local beaches, or spending time with family.

Thank you for visiting my digital studio. To see what I’m working on today and get a behind-the-scenes look at my creative process, come say hello on Instagram @aileenandersonart.

‘Cousins Assemble’ - Finalist 2026 Burwood Art Prize