Introducing Sophie from Sophies Painting. Where every item is handmade!! From her home in Perth, Western Australia, Sophie hand paints all of her stunning artwork.
Find out why Sophie started creating and why she is so passionate about the value of handmade.
Tell us about your creations and your handmade process.
My art is all about energy, flow, and the organic way colours evolve when given the freedom to just be. I don't start with a plan - I start with the colours that resonate. From there, each painting unfolds naturally, layer by layer, creating a process that's both immersive and meditative. I begin with fluid acrylic washes, building organic shapes and forms that create depth and movement. Then, I overlay stylised floral and leaf impressions in complementary colours before adding my favourite details-intricate fine line pen work that brings everything together.
Finishing touches come with gouache and chalk to add pops of colour and balance the composition. Alongside my original paintings, I create hand-painted mobiles and printed cards featuring my designs. Whether it's a one-of-a-kind artwork or a card that brightens someone's day, my hope is that my art gives people a moment to pause, breathe, and feel a sense of brightness - just as it does for me while I create it.
Tell us a bit about your journey to becoming a handmade artist.
Creativity has always been part of my world. With two artistic grandmothers who designed, sewed, painted, it's probably in my genes. As a child, I loved art, and over the years, I've explored different creative outlets: Celtic-inspired artworks, printing, needlework, and even painting designs on gum leaves. But like many of us, life got busy.
Between a demanding career and everything that comes with having a family, my creativity took a back seat. Then, last year everything changed. A major, unexpected surgery left me unable to move much, and I needed something to keep my mind from spiraling. I signed up for a short online art class - just to pass the time-and something clicked.
Creativity flooded back, and I haven't stopped since.
Now, I bring my work to local art markets and share my designs with our Madeit community
What is your inspiration or where do you find inspiration?
I'm inspired by colour, movement, and the beauty of creative flow-the kind that happens when you let go of perfectionism and just play. I love the contrast between structured fine lines and the organic unpredictability of layered paint. For me, painting is a way to bring joy, brightness, and a sense of calm into the world
Where did you learn your craft?
I learned by experimenting, making a mess, and letting go of the outcome. I never set out to 'paint a picture'-instead, I let the colours guide me. It started in sketchbooks, where I layered paint with no expectations, just seeing where it would take me. That freedom led to a distinct style, one that continues to evolve with every piece I create.
Why is handmade artistry so important to you?
In a world full of mass production and sameness, handmade artistry is a breath of fresh air. It's slow, thoughtful, and deeply personal. Every piece carries the artist's energy-something no machine can replicate. Handmade pieces tell a story. They hold the imperfections, the time, the care, and the heart of their maker. That's what makes them special. Whether it's an original painting, a card or a hand-painted mobile, I absolutely love knowing that my work becomes part of someone's space, bringing warmth and brightness into their home.
Sophie is a much loved member of the Madeit Collective, posting regularly in our Facebook Group ~ The Handmade Marketplace of Australia ~ and sharing her new creations as they are released. If you haven't connected with Sophies Painting, make sure you join our FB Group and say hi !
