Let’s get to know Australian artist and colour enthusiast, Kayla Henley (@kaylahenleyart)! She uses tone and colour to create dynamic patterns made up of chickens, fruit, flowers, and more. Check out her creative story down below.  

We see you’re a Mum to a couple of cute kiddos – how do you prioritise finding time to create when life can get so busy?

I think you have to make creating a priority and schedule it into a busy week. I really believe even a 1hr session here and there is better than none in a week. It would be ideal to have larger blocks of time but that’s not always realistic for everyone, particularly parents. It might look like getting up an hour earlier before the kids or picking up a paintbrush when they’ve gone to bed. I work mostly at night, and I don’t watch TV. 

What’s one art medium you’re comfy with and one you want to explore more?

I am very comfortable with acrylic paint and I would like to further explore oil pastels and oil paint.

What’s your creative process like? Do you prefer to plan it out or jump in and learn as you go?

I have a lot of ideas and not enough time. I save a lot of pictures that inspire me on Pinterest which might include a colour palette I love, cool patterns or an interesting composition. Best practice would suggest you play around in a sketchbook and map out different ideas, but I’ll often dive straight in and work it out as I go. I’m not afraid to paint over something that’s not working. 

What’s your ideal setup for a creative session – music, snacks, morning light?

Picture beautiful sunlight, an audiobook playing through my headphones, and a coffee in hand. Ideally a tidy desk (but that often doesn’t happen!). 

Any advice for tackling art block or brain fog? What gets you creating again?

My advice for tackling a creative block would be to change your surroundings. Get up and go for a walk outside. If it’s a more significant block I’d suggest changing what you’re working on.

Start a new project in a different medium if you have access to it and play around to take the pressure off and return to the joy of creating. For example, if you’re an acrylic still life artist, try landscape, collage, or ink. 

Necessity gets me creating again, as I have deadlines that I have to meet which requires me to push through. 

What season encapsulates who you are the most?

The season the encapsulates me the most would be Spring 🌼

We love that you explore colour and pattern in an unconventional way (it’s a feast for the eyes!). Any advice on finding your creative style?

I think you should start with lots of experimentation and play. Try lots of things, from painting and print making to drawing and sketching. Do classes in person or online. Watch YouTube videos.

It’s okay for your style to evolve and change with you. It’s not static. And it’s also okay to be inspired and influenced by others, just be mindful of not copying. 

If you got to be an animal for a day, which would you pick?

I would want to my dog, Freddie. I think he lives the best life. A very pampered pooch!

Do you have a fave or go-to Mont Marte product?

My favourite Monte Marte product would be both the affordable canvases and acrylic paint. 

Tell us, what' s your guilty pleasure?

So many… but I’d have to say hot chips and gravy. 

See more about @kaylahenleyart by checking out our gallery, where her art journey is featured! Stock up on textured vibrant paints and affordable canvases so you can explore colour and pattern at home. If you feel ready to create, #montmarteart or tag us @montmarteart on Instagram or Facebook. We’d love to see what you come up with!

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