Media
Making Your Own Opportunities: Converstaions with Leisa Clark
Riverplace Art Conversations
What happens when a graphic designer moves into fine art? Toowoomba artist Leisa Clark joins Riverplace Art Conversations to reflect on her transition from graphic design into a dedicated art practice. We explore overcoming obstacles, building confidence, and the practical strategies behind making your own opportunities in a competitive creative landscape. An honest and encouraging episode for anyone considering a shift into art — or seeking the courage to take the next step in any creative or business venture.
Media release
Reclaiming the Creative Spirit – Leisa Clark
From Midwifery to Masterpieces: Toowoomba Artist Leisa Clark Shares her Journey of Resilience and Creative Reclamation
TOOWOOMBA, QLD – Regional artist and digital entrepreneur Leisa Clark is available for media comment on the topics of creative resilience, mid-life career transitions, and the vital role of the arts in regional Australian communities.
After abandoning her teenage dreams of artistry to pursue a career in Nursing and Midwifery, a series of life-altering challenges, including a debilitating back injury and a battle with depression, forced Clark to re-evaluate her path. Today, she has emerged as a prominent voice in the Toowoomba arts scene, blending traditional acrylic painting with cutting-edge digital expertise.
A Story of Two Halves
Clark’s journey is one of profound transformation. Having stepped away from the medical profession in her early 30s, she founded Retrohex in 2017, a successful graphic and web design agency. However, it was not until 2023 that she finally picked up the brush again, returning to the roots she had set aside twenty-five years earlier.
“I spent decades walking someone else’s path”, says Clark. “Returning to art was not just about painting; it was about reclaiming my own narrative”.
Expertise at the Intersection of Art and Technology
Beyond her evocative landscape and portrait work, Clark is a recognised expert in the digitisation of the regional arts economy. As the founder of Pop’d Hub, she is available to discuss:
- Creative Resilience: Overcoming personal and professional hurdles to pursue a passion.
- The Regional Arts Economy: How digital tools can bridge the gap for rural and regional creators.
- Career Pivots: Transitioning from essential services (Midwifery) to the creative industries.
- AI and the Artist: Leveraging modern technology while maintaining the human Soul of art.
About Leisa Clark
Leisa Clark is a Toowoomba-based acrylic artist whose work captures scenes of relief and reflection in an overwhelming world. Known for her use of vibrant colours and moody, resilient landscapes, she is a member of multiple regional artist groups and a regular participant in Queensland painting workshops. She is the founder of Retrohex and the visionary behind Pop’d Hub.
Leisa Clark | Artist and Founder
Phone: 0418 159 149
Email: support@popd.au
Website: leisaclark.com / retrohex.com.au / popd.au
High-resolution images of Leisa in her studio and samples of her recent work are available upon request