Kaitlin can’t mask her creativity any more

A VISUAL arts diploma graduate who had tried her hand in multiple careers is reaping the rewards of a newly found passion at TAFE Cairns.

Creative pieces by Kaitlin Lovelock and other visual arts graduates and students are currently on display in a free public art exhibition at the educator’s Manunda base.

Ms Lovelock, 27, said making a commitment to focus on her creative endeavours was the best decision she could have made.

“I have worked in mining, retail and business, but I was not mentally stimulated at work and I was always too busy to paint and draw,” Ms Lovelock said.

“I had turned my back on art.

“Last year I decided that I wanted to do something for myself and focus all of my energy into developing and expanding my art skills.

“A year or two ago I never would have thought that my art would be on a gallery wall, it’s pretty cool.”

Ms Lovelock said she wished she had started her diploma sooner.

“It has been such an uplifting experience, TAFE has really brought me out of my shell,” she said.

“The teachers are really nice and have become like family members; they are amazing cheerleaders who are have been so encouraging and supportive throughout my training.

“I’m a painter and drawer, so coming into the course I was really interested to learn other skills like printmaking, and I even surprised myself with how much I enjoyed sculpture.”

Aside from the current exhibition, Ms Lovelock is also selling her work online.

“If anyone else is considering enrolling, I’d say go for it. If you don’t do it, you’ll be left wondering.”

The #fivefeetapart creative space and social distancing exhibition is open until July 24 at the Banggu Minjaany Art Gallery at the TAFE campus.