Artist Statement

"I paint to honour the quiet beauty found in everyday life—moments of stillness, warmth, and joy that are often overlooked. Whether it’s the dappled light on citrus, the gentle gaze of a companion animal, or the elegant form of a flower in bloom, my work seeks to slow time and celebrate presence. Working in oils and acrylics, I create textured, narrative-rich paintings rooted in expressive realism. Food, nature, and animals serve as my primary subjects—not only for their visual allure but for the memories, comforts, and stories they hold. I am drawn to scenes that evoke a sense of connection, calm, and emotional resonance. Recently, I’ve been exploring these themes on a smaller scale through a series of miniature works that celebrate life’s little joys—tiny compositions that whisper, linger, and shine. From my studio in Toowoomba, I remain inspired by the sensory rhythm of everyday life, finding new ways to bring light, colour, and emotion to the canvas."

Biography

Tracey Schaeper Visual Artist | Oils & Acrylics | Toowoomba, QLD Tracey Schaeper paints the poetry of the everyday—sunlight on citrus, a still life moment, the delicate bloom of a flower. Working in oils and acrylics from her studio in Toowoomba, Queensland, she creates richly textured works that invite viewers to pause and savour life’s luminous moments. Rooted in expressive realism, her practice weaves together the natural world, domestic stillness, and culinary nostalgia. Whether capturing the warmth of a summer table or the spirit of a beloved animal, her paintings are composed with care, sensitivity, and a discerning eye for detail. In 2025, Tracey was awarded the People’s Choice Award at the Foothills Art Exhibition and this year she was the Foothills Feature Artist. Her work was awarded First place in the Oils and Acrylics Section of the show. She also received First Place at the Bell Art Exhibition for her abstract work "Surfacing", as well as first and second place in the small works section of the show for her work "Wren on a Wire" and "Swine with Shine". She is currently developing a series of miniature works celebrating the small delights of daily life—tiny vignettes that whisper, linger, and shine. Her recent focus includes still life, animal portraiture, and botanical subjects, rendered with a narrative quality and tactile depth. To view her portfolio, visit Instagram (@traceyschaeperart) or Facebook (Tracey Schaeper Art).

Influences

My work is shaped by a love of animals, food, and travel. I’m inspired by colour, texture, and the quiet beauty of everyday life—from sunlit kitchens to delicate pastries and the gentle presence of animals. These influences guide my practice and help me tell warm, personal stories through paint.

Awards

2025 - People's Choice Award, "Light As A Feather", Foothills Art Exhibition 2026 - First place Abstract, "Surfacing", Bell Art Exhibition 2026 - First place Small Works, "Wren On A Wire", Bell Art Exhibition, 2026 - Second place Small Works, "Swine With Shine", Bell Art Exhibition 2026 - First place Oils and Acrylics, "Cherries No. 1", Foothills Art Exhibition

Exhibitions

2023 - Energy In Motion, Lockyer Valley Art Gallery 2025 - Square Exhibition, Toowoomba Art Society 2025 - Foothills Art Exhibition 2026 - Bell Art Exhibition 2026 - Foothills Art Exhibition - Feature Artist 2026 - Aspire Gallery Little Feature Wall