At May’s PSA Brisbane meeting, we were treated to an inspiring demo by Master Pastellist, Louise Corke, who showed us that powerful art doesn’t come from technique alone—it’s fuelled by positive emotion. Referencing Barbara Fredrickson’s “Broaden and Build” theory, Louise explored how curiosity, joy, and wonder open creative pathways and deeper engagement in our work.

Her demonstration took us from concept to colour, weaving in stories and emotional connections with each reference photo. With a thoughtful palette and signature edge work, Louise transformed feeling into form with her demo piece of a path leading us through to a pink flowering bush. We left energised, reminded to embrace the beauty around us—and to “live ready” in the studio and beyond.