Hi I’m Anna, a teacher, emerging illustrator and surface pattern designer based in the beautiful Illawarra region of NSW, Australia. I’ve created Wattle and Wags, a small art business that I’m building alongside my teaching career.

While I still love working with children, I’ve discovered just how important creativity is to my own wellbeing. Like for so many of us, life has become so busy with the many responsibilities of a career and a family, and it’s easy to forget to make time for the things that bring us joy. Wattle and Wags has grown from my desire to reconnect with that creative part of myself and share it with others.

I create playful, nature-inspired artwork celebrating Australia’s native birds, animals and plants. My love of dogs and other pets is another big influence on my art, as I believe our furry companions give us so much, bringing comfort, laughter and unconditional love into our lives.

For years I thought I was ‘bad’ at art, but I eventually realised I simply hadn’t found the right medium. Then along came Procreate - and I absolutely LOVE that magical ‘undo’ button (did I mention I’m a recovering perfectionist?) It gave me the confidence to experiment, keep learning and discover a love of illustration that I never expected.

My hope is that my artwork helps people slow down, notice beauty in the natural world, feel connected to the people and animals they love, and perhaps even have a giggle along the way.

As Wattle and Wags grows, I hope to expand my collection beyond greeting cards to prints, stationery and surface pattern design, while continuing to celebrate the wonderful wildlife and landscapes that inspire me every day.

If you’d like to stay connected, I’d love you to join my newsletter, here. I’ll share occasional updates, new artwork and little glimpses into this creative adventure.