Brushstrokes of Encouragement
Story: Lizzie Macaulay, Bigger Picture Business Solutions. Photo: Cody Fox, Celva Media
When Suzy Cels tells her students "nothing is wrong, everything is right," she's speaking from two decades of experience that began at the bustling Eumundi Markets. The Hervey Bay artist and educator, whose acrylic painting "Aviator" recently won the 2024 Open Section of the Hervey Bay Art Society 40th Annual Competition, has built her philosophy around one simple truth: everyone can paint.
Suzy's artistic journey began in 2000 while running her clothing label Suzie Cels in Noosa. "I was selling my artwork alongside my clothing at the markets," she recalls. It was there that her path crossed with renowned Australian artist Amanda Brooks, leading to an exchange that would change everything—clothing designs for art lessons.
After returning to New Zealand in 2004, Suzy continued painting and eventually stepped into teaching in 2013. With support from her late partner, she transformed their farm studio into a creative sanctuary, teaching up to 60 students a week, including 35 children.
"I absolutely loved teaching. It was such an incredible learning journey for me," Suzy reflects. Her approach was always encouraging: "Every mistake is a new lesson" became a mantra her students knew well.
In 2022, Suzy returned to Australia, settling in Hervey Bay where she opened a new studio and resumed teaching in 2023. Now working with 6 to 16 adult students each week, she's discovered that teaching art creates something beyond technique.
"I've made such lovely friends through teaching—it's not just about painting, it's about connection," she shares. "When they say, 'I can't believe I painted that,' that moment of disbelief and pride is everything."
Her winning piece "Aviator" exemplifies Suzy's intuitive approach to art. "He began as a thought, evolved through several references, and turned out very different from how he started—but I was thrilled with the result. He's very handsome," she adds with characteristic warmth.
This intuitive style reflects Suzy's broader artistic philosophy. "I get bored easily," she laughs. "I see something inspiring, find a reference photo, and off I go." From Highland cows to bulldogs, flowers to portraits, she refuses to be confined to one subject or style.
Though acrylics remain her primary medium, Suzy is exploring oils and mixed media. "There's always more to learn, but I'm enjoying the ride."
For Suzy, painting offers something unique in our busy world: "It's the closest thing to meditation you'll find." Her mission remains clear—guiding people to believe in themselves, one brushstroke at a time.
Suzy Cels teaches from her Hervey Bay studio and welcomes new students of all abilities.
This story appears in the September 2025 edition of Fraser Coast Scene, our monthly guide to What's On across our Cultural Services venues.
The creation of this story and photography was funded by Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF). RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Fraser Coast Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.
