Abstract artist Jacqueline Joosen, in her Port Douglas studio

About Jacqueline

Unstructured art that captures the essence of a subconscious mind navigating the ebb and flow of the world around us.

As an abstract painter, my work is a deeply personal exploration of my life experiences. Each piece is a journey to capture the essence of my emotions through an intuitive and meditative process. I never plan my paintings beforehand; instead, I delve into my subconscious mind, allowing it to guide my hand. The materials I use include unique handmade collage papers, oil sticks, pencils, and crayons. These elements come together through the layering of textures and colours, mimicking the playful and unrestrained creativity of a child in kindergarten.

I start by creating delicate handmade collage papers, integrating them into my work. I then make spontaneous marks with oil sticks, pencils, crayons, and other materials, letting my subconscious mind flow and take the lead. As the layers build, I use a sander to reveal glimpses of the previous layers, fostering a dialogue between what is hidden and what is visible until a feeling or a memory begins to surface. Once this feeling starts to take shape, I become more deliberate, carefully considering which marks to keep and which to paint over, refining the overall composition until it feels complete.

Recently, I received profound feedback from a collector who purchased two of my paintings. She wrote, “I don’t think I will ever truly be able to put into words how these two significant pieces speak to me or how soul-stirring they are or what they will mean to me. It will be an absolute privilege to have them in my life, and I can assure you that they will be treasured and honoured in my home. Thank you for painting the world through a beautiful lens and having the courage to share it.” This heartfelt message encapsulates the essence of what I aim to achieve with my work – to reach people in a deeply emotional and soul-stirring way.

In terms of subject matter, my approach is largely instinctual. I let my subconscious decide, knowing that clarity will come as the piece nears completion. What draws me to a particular composition is the interplay of contrasting elements: the flow of interesting shapes, dark and light areas, and sharp versus fuzzy lines. These contrasts create a dynamic tension that I find compelling.

Each piece is a layered narrative, revealing the intricate dance between the conscious and subconscious, the past and the present.

My inspiration stems from everyday life, the natural world, my garden. These elements provide a rich tapestry of experiences from which to draw.

In essence, my work is an invitation to explore the depths of feeling and experience. Through my paintings, I hope to connect with others on a profound level, touching their souls and enriching their lives with my art.

I work from my studio in Port Douglas, Far North Queensland.

Earthly inspiration.

If you’re interested in some of the secrets behind my work, this short video is just for you! In an interview with Sophia Stacey I reveal a number of different techniques that I use in my paintings and abstract artwork. We also delve deeper into abstract expressionism and the inspiration that I get from the natural world, organic textures and forms that I encounter in the environment around us.

Watch Jacqueline Joosen’s documentary in conjunction with MaZuma Productions:

Embracing resilience.

My reflections draw on the beauty and emotions surrounding me, including aspects such as loneliness and confusion, as well as the desire to connect and coexist. I believe our thoughts and experiences weather and shape us. They change us as we search for clarity and can inspire us to do better.

Watch Jacqueline Joosen’s documentary, ‘Resilience’:

Jacqueline’s Artworks are featured in:

Thresholds
NorthSite Contemporary Arts 2025

Go Troppo
Port Douglas Artists 2024

Affordable Art Fair Brisbane
2024

Affordable Art Fair Melbourne
2023

Revival A&D Gallery -
Emerging Artist Finalist 2023

M.A.D.S -
Digital Gallery

Art in Transit -
FNQ Artists Collection

Maker Store, Port Douglas -
Featured Artist

Unearthed Art Prize -
Finalist

Douglas Shire -
‘Resilience’ Solo Exhibition

Jacqueline Joosen creating abstract art in her studio

“Having people intrigued enough to attempt to unravel the intentions of my art is like someone getting to know me personally.”

— Jacqueline Joosen, abstract artist

Follow me on Instagram