Louise Billinghurst was raised on a family farm in South Africa as one of five children. Graphite pencil and paper was her constant companion, and her talent was encouraged by her teachers and parents. She married a backpacking New Zealander during his working holiday in South Africa. He is constantly encouraging her to explore new horizons. Together with their three boys, they travelled and lived in Africa, the Middle East, Australia and currently, New Zealand.

 

Creating from the inspiration of her past experiences, dreams and spiritual encounters, Louise invites the viewer into their own journey of deeper divine connection and personal discovery. Louise speaks highly of her training from South African artist Alanna Deall and more recently, Milan Art Institute. She loves the ability of art to communicate across cultural, language and generational barriers. Her private studio is a haven of tranquility with New Zealand sunsets and sheltering oak trees to announce the seasons all year round. Louise also volunteers her time to provide art experiences for refugees as they work through the challenges of settling into New Zealand.

 

In future, Louise would love to re-connect with the countries she has been to, travel to new ones and assist with the development of underprivileged local artists in each country, while she writes, creates and publishes about past and present experiences.