Not everyone sees the world the way Natasja Jirwander does, literally.
The Kulnura-born artist experiences the world as a shifting double image, her vision a constant dance between separation and clarity.
Yet, in her words, “our greatest weakness becomes our greatest strength”.
For Jirwander, that strength lies in deep empathy and fearless creativity.
Her first public exhibition, aptly called Through Her Eyes, is bound to start unexpected conversations, not least because of her unusual artistic journey.
A conversation with her rarely skims the surface.
She dives into the human mind with the ease of someone who has lived many lives: artist, entrepreneur, martial arts practitioner, mother and friend.
Over the past 25 years, Jirwander has raised children, operated a chain of health food stores, and run a successful local manufacturing business that not only supplied products to Coles but also featured her art on its packaging.
Through it all, she turned to the ancient discipline of martial arts to maintain balance and strength.
After selling her business, Jirwander turned to painting full-time. But it wasn’t an easy shift. “It took a year of reflection to decide if art had enough purpose,” she says.
Her design degree had instilled in her the value of function, but art, she felt, might be an emotional indulgence.
That question was answered in paint and passion.
Today, she paints mainly commissioned pieces, but her own works — vivid, detailed and deeply personal — reflect her journey and beliefs.
“No matter how confronting, how scary, how daunting life gets, live at your edges,” she says.
“Search your soul’s calling, open yourself up, and dare to make mistakes.”
Raised on a property in Kulnura, riding horses and exploring state forests, Jirwander still finds inspiration in the Central Coast’s natural beauty.
“Get off grid,” she urges, “switch off your phone, listen to your heart and the trees sing.”
Her latest work includes illustrations for a new children’s book by Emeritus Professor Jenny Onyx, based on a true story of a lorikeet, a piece that will also be featured in her upcoming exhibition.
Jirwander has also invited locally based photographer Nathan Lowe to feature at the exhibition, recognising his authentic artistic vision and compassion for the underprivileged.
This exhibition will be opened by Coast Community News Managing Editor David Abrahams.
The exhibition Through My Eyes will be held for two days only, May 24 and 25, from 10am to 6pm, at 75 Hillcrest St, Terrigal. RSVP to natasja@jirwander.com
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