With delicate watercolours and a deep appreciation for the natural world, artist Kirsty Springett captures the quiet beauty often overlooked in everyday life.
Inspired by the African bush, the ocean and the intricate details of wildlife, Kirsty’s work invites viewers to slow down, pause and reconnect with nature. We chatted to her about the inspiration behind her work, her artistic journey and why creating art has become her greatest joy.
How would you describe your art style?
I work primarily in watercolour, and my style is soft, detailed and inspired by nature. I’m naturally drawn to the finer details of my subjects and love observing how colour shifts, layers and moves. Using subtle tonal variations, I aim to create depth, a sense of calm and a quiet balance in each piece.
My compositions are intentionally simple, allowing the subject to take centre stage, while negative space gives it room to breathe. I love creating work that feels contemplative, timeless and contemporary.
What inspires your work most right now?
I’ve always felt deeply connected to nature. Growing up, I spent a lot of time in game reserves, where my love for wildlife first began. The African bush remains my happy place, and that connection continues to shape much of my work.
Lately, I’ve become increasingly inspired by the ocean, especially the fascinating creatures beneath its surface that so few of us get to experience.
How did your journey as an artist begin?
My love for art started in high school, and although I considered studying Fine Art, I ultimately pursued a career in marketing. Looking back, I realise I never felt completely fulfilled because my creative side was always waiting to be expressed. About a year ago, I decided to pick up a paintbrush again. After such a long break, it took courage to believe in myself and share my work. Because I pour so much of myself into every painting, I had to learn that not everyone will connect with it, and that’s perfectly okay.
I was drawn to watercolour because of its softness and unpredictability. I taught myself the medium through practice, patience and persistence, and every painting continues to teach me something new. I believe my creativity is a gift from God, but I also know that growth comes through consistency and dedication.
Art also runs in my family. My father, artist Ben Jonker, has been a wonderful inspiration, so perhaps the apple really doesn’t fall far from the tree.
Do you have a favourite piece you’ve created recently?
A recent commissioned lobster painting holds a special place in my heart. It was one of my largest and most detailed works, and I loved incorporating blue Delft-inspired patterns into the tail, drawing inspiration from elements in the client’s kitchen. It felt incredibly personal and became the starting point for a new sea-inspired series exploring a more restrained, monochromatic colour palette.
That said, my latest leopard painting is probably my current favourite. Everything seemed to come together naturally, and it represents a moment when I feel my style is becoming exactly what I’ve envisioned.
More than anything, I hope viewers leave feeling encouraged to slow down and appreciate the quiet beauty that surrounds us every day, those small, extraordinary details in nature that are so easily overlooked.
Details: IG: @ kirsty_springett_art
