Art inspired by the places we never forget

I'm Phoebe Clarke, a legally blind artist on the Sunshine Coast artist, mum of two and lifelong lover of the ocean.

Growing up on the coast, I spent much of my time around the water. The beaches, vibrant colours and family memories by the ocean became a huge part of who I am. Today, those experiences continue to shape my paintings.

Through Studio Stokes, I create expressive, realistic paintings inspired by Australia's coastline, the places we explore and the beautiful memories we make in those places. My work is about more than capturing a landscape. It's about capturing how a place makes you feel, the freedom of an empty beach, the warmth of a Summer sunrise or the feeling of being completely present in a moment.

Seeing the world through a different perspective

My journey with art began in childhood, while I was undergoing treatment for leukaemia. Painting became a source of comfort, creativity and escape, and it has remained an important part of my life ever since.

Being legally blind brings its own challenges to the way I work, but it has never taken away my desire to create. I often paint close to the canvas, in a dimly lit room, surrounded by music, focusing on the colours, details which is quite ironic considering I don’t see a whole lot of detail in my day to day life, I think that’s what draws me to painting expressive realism, little details and using such bright colours because those are all the small beauties in life we take for granted sometimes.

I love pushing my own limits and discovering what is possible, both in art and in life. My experiences have shaped the way I approach my work and strengthened my appreciation for the small moments of beauty that can otherwise pass us by.

Inspired by the Australian coast

From the familiar beaches of Coolum and the beauty of K'gari to the remote coastlines of Western Australia, many of my paintings begin with a place that I have travelled to that has stayed with me.

Some are inspired by family adventures, surfing, travelling and exploring. Others come from the quieter moments — watching the light change across the water or seeing the last colours of the sun disappear over the horizon.

I want my paintings to bring those feelings into your home. Whether a piece reminds you of a favourite holiday, a place you call home, somewhere you celebrated a special occasion. Or maybe your baby took their first steps in the sand, an engagment or the last days spent with a loved one. I hope it gives you a reason to pause and reconnect with that feeling every time you see it.

Bringing a piece of the coast into your home

Every Studio Stokes painting is created with care, with the aim of bringing colour, character and a connection to nature into the spaces where we live.

You can explore original paintings, each with its own story, or discover fine art prints that make my work accessible in a range of spaces and budgets.

Thank you for being here and supporting my art. Whether you're discovering my work for the first time or choosing a piece for your home, Thankyou

Phoebe

-Studio Stokes