Healing through art

As the Surf Coast Arts Trail gears up for its 2025 return, one local has put together her most personal collection yet.

Karren Stoneham’s pieces will don the walls of the Surfcoast Gallery for the trail, with the body of work, Seawindow Series, born out of her journey through mental health recovery.

“I stopped painting for a while, but slowly I was drawn back to it,” Stoneham said.

“It helped me process, rebuild and reconnect – and reminded me that creativity can be one of the most powerful forms of healing.

“Painting helped me rediscover myself. Now it’s not just part of my life – it’s the foundation of who I am, the space where I feel most whole, most present andmost free.”

 

The series features the Australian coastline on round canvases, playing the role of symbolic windows.

Pieces were created using a wet-on-wet technique utilising a hands-on approach to blend the oil paints, plaster and resin.

“There’s something undeniably delightful about capturing the playful spirit of the velvety coastline and the big Australian skies, along with the ever-changing moods,” Stoneham said.

The round canvases have become a staple in her work with the artist saying it just made sense to her.

“These pieces aren’t just artworks – they’re invitations to step into another world.

 

“I’ve been told the circle draws you in. It becomes a feature on any wall and commands attention.”

Stoneham’s works have been shown across the regions since 2022, including in the Queenscliff Art Prize, The Space Gallery Geelong, Lorne Gallery, Anglesea and more.

Her participation in this year’s Arts Trail can be attributed to Surfcoast Gallery founder Jackie Burke, who offered Stoneham a space to work in.

“I’m so grateful to Jacki. Surfcoast Gallery is not just a gallery – it’s a heart-centred hub built to support and celebrate artists at all stages,” Stoneham said.

“It’s a must-visit destination during the trail, with over 20 artists exhibiting under one roof from oil painters, watercolourists, mixed media, resin, stunning glass art, sculptures and plenty of handcrafted gifts and collectables.”

The Surf Coast Arts Trail will run across multiple venues in the region on August 2 and August 3.

For more information, head to surfcoastartstrail.com.au