Acclaimed International Mixed Media Artist, Shirley Marais, lives in the Hinterland of the Sunshine Coast. Born in East Africa, she has travelled extensively, furthering her understanding of different cultures and varied artistic mediums as is evidenced when viewing her inspirational work. She has studied art in various forms all her life and has exhibited her award winning work in Australia and South Africa. Completing courses in sculpture, pottery, water colours, oils, acrylics, stone & wood carving, fabric painting and Japanese air dry clay with various other styles and techniques having received certificates, diplomas and various awards. She has done private tutoring in the arts to various individuals as well as to disadvantaged people enhancing encouragement and hope. Marais’ expressive use of colour and light on rough and smooth surfaces are portrayed in her paintings and sculptures.Her love is ceramic art, hand built original copper haired ladies which have found homes internationally namely Dubai, Singapore, South Africa, USA, Greece, New Zealand and Australia. For Marais, sculpture and paintings is a reflection of life and hope, which is why composers agonise over a score and artists over a canvas believing some glimmer of beauty will emerge from the struggle.