Gold Coast Demo Petronella M van Leusden - Opposites Attract: Using Design Elements in Your Art

About the Demo:

In this demonstration, Petronella will explore how contrasting colours, textures and design elements can create harmony, energy and visual interest in pastel.

In the design and execution, the aim is to:

1. Think about opposites — consider which contrasts you want to emphasise in your next painting: light/dark, soft/hard, busy/quiet, warm/cool.

2. Feel the freedom to create — use your reference photos as a starting point, not a set of instructions. Take something out, add something in, change it and make it your own.

Join us on a journey where light meets shadow, chaos dances with order, and vibrant hues find balance with

muted tones. The canvas or other surface becomes a realm where the allure of opposites not only

attracts but also sparks a conversation about the beauty that can emerge from

the fusion of disparate elements. Examples from famous works of art will be shown and discussed. 

Let Petronella help you explore how harmony can emerge from contrast and how you can become the innovator and creator of your own artwork.

Date: 17 October 2026

Location: Old Post Office, 57 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba

Time: 2:00 PM arrival for a 2:30 PM start (until 4:30 PM)

Entry: $5 members / $10 non-members (cash or card at the door)

Plus:

• Raffle draw with art-related prizes

• Tea, coffee & light refreshments provided (BYO mug)

• Bring a pastel piece for optional group critique