Say hey to South African artist, Desiree De Goede (@the_princess_layer)! From rock painting to canvas art, her style is whimsical and eye-catching, filled with vibrant colour. We asked Desiree all about what inspires her and keeps her creating, so read on to find out more.
What would you say to someone who might be a little scared to take a leap into creativity?
It sounds like such a cliché, but I would honestly just say to DO IT! Take the first step to creativity… buy those paint brushes or that sketch book – dust off your old art supplies and then, do ‘it’. Whether you start small and build up and get bigger is up to you but start somewhere…. and why not make that leap now?
What got you into making art rocks?
I would never have thought that painting rocks would bring me so much joy, or that it would be something I’d actually be good at – rocks of all things? But, when the Covid pandemic hit and lockdowns were enforced all around the world, including in my home city of Cape Town in South Africa, a very good friend suggested we paint rocks. I thought she was crazy at the time, but I was game to try… I purchased supplies and started with a few basic rocks. The ‘falling in love’ part of my rock art relationship kicked in almost immediately – I loved it, and it just grew from there.
Where do you find your creative inspiration for your rock paintings? They’re stunning!
Inspiration is everywhere and so I am always looking in nature, books, online sources – the rabbit hole that is Pinterest is very real. Current pop culture trends are also fun to follow. I am in awe of all the amazing inspirational pieces and tips other artists share and I have found that, mostly, the community is a very generous and supportive one. I have also learned that I am a lover of bright and fun colours and there is nothing I enjoy more than picking out colours and textures. Nature is a never-ending source of inspiration here – sunrises, sunsets…. they give me all the feels. I love a good nail manicure, so I am always on the hunt for a great mani to match my reels – a little matchy-matchy is not only fun, but good-looking nails look great in cute reels.
Aside from creative projects, what other hobbies do you enjoy?
I try to paint whenever I can, but I also enjoy reading – crime and thrillers are my go-to for sure. More recently, I have become a ‘plant person’ – I love my house plants, so taking care of them and watching them grow and thrive really gives me such satisfaction. I am now a rock…. and plant person.
How did you discover your inner artist? Was it a gradual process or a surprise discovery?
Growing up, I was never particularly creative… I was never ‘that’ girl, but I was always a day dreamer. I actually fell in love with makeup first and studied to be a professional makeup artist and even worked as one for a time – I think that’s where my love of blending and shading came from, growing my knowledge of colour theory. When I took to rock painting and realised internally that I could be good at it, that’s when my creativity really took off – art is now everything.
How do you find the time to be creative? Any advice for our readers on making time for art?
Allowing myself time for creativity is really important and I try to prioritise this. I will intentionally set aside time for my art so that I can plan towards it… but creativity is a process that cannot always be planned, so I do try to allow some freedom within my days for my art to just ‘happen’. I definitely feel a sense of accomplishment when I am able to create and focus for a few hours as it makes me a better person – art time never really makes me grumpy, so it’s therapeutic for me!
It's a Friday night and we' re coming around for dinner! What would you cook us?
Ooooh… could we skip mains and go straight to dessert? I’m such a fan of dessert and I think I’d whip up a devilishly delicious chocolate cake or lemon meringue – there is no such thing as ‘too sweet’ for me.
Do you have a fave Mont Marte product?
I have many faves but Gold Leaf is my EVERYTHING… actually, same goes for anything glittery and sparkly. I cannot get enough of the Mont Marte Gold Leaf Sheets, and they feature quite a bit in my art. I always make sure to keep a steady supply gold leaf on hand.
What’s something you’re proud of, that you don’t often get to talk about?
My Instagram page – it’s my ‘baby’ and I’ve really nurtured it over the past few years. I am immensely proud of all of the work put into the images and reels I have posted, and it allows me to watch my growth happen in real time. I look back over the years and it’s just been so special – I plan to create many more amazing pieces to post too. I put a lot of heart and passion into my page, and I am really proud sharing it with you all.
What does your dream creative space look like?
As an eternal day dreamer, I fantasise about this one quite often – my ideal space must have an endless supply of natural light – a huge bay window allowing the sun to shine in overlooking a gorgeous garden would be amazing. Décor in warm tones with MANY lush and gorgeous plants will ensure my space is inviting – I’m also a bit of a neat freak, so I’d have storage space that blends with the room. And because I’m a colour lover, I’d use colour to really bring the space to life. For the walls, I’d perhaps paint my own boho styled mural. Aside from a super comfy working chair, I’d have a cozy couch in the corner to relax on for when I’m reading a few pages or scouting the web for new ideas.
Desiree has totally inspired us to stop thinking about creating and just do it instead! Whether it’s rock painting, crafts, sculpting, or whatever takes your fancy – now’s the time to have a go, even if just for a few minutes.
See more of @the_princess_layer by checking out our gallery, where her art journey is featured! Stock up on Acrylic Paints and Gold Leaf to try rock painting at home! If you do make something, #montmarteart or tag us @montmarteart on Instagram or Facebook. We’d love to see what you come up with!
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