The decision to sell her paintings didn’t come naturally.
“I started trying to sell my art because my husband said it was good enough to sell,” Emma said. “Most of the time I still don’t feel like my pieces are very good, but I’ve had so much encouragement from friends.”
So far, Emma has sold three paintings, each one a reminder that others see the beauty in her work, even when she doubts herself.
Creating her website became another challenge to overcome.
“It was more of a mental barrier than a physical one,” she explained. “Once I had created the website and uploaded the artwork I wanted people to see, I was really proud of it. I’ve shared it with everyone I know.”
Building the website as someone with low vision wasn’t easy. Using a simple Squarespace template, Emma spent two weeks learning through trial and error, asking family members for help when she couldn’t locate buttons on the screen, and using AI to guide her through each step.
“There were times I had to stop because it was frustrating and come back a few days later,” she said. “I just kept making mistakes until I got it right.”
Looking back, Emma says she wishes she could reassure the version of herself who first picked up a paintbrush.
“When I first started painting, I’d stop if I didn’t like what I’d created. Now I just keep working until it becomes something I’m proud of. If I’m unsure, I put it away for a week and come back to it. Everything looks better when you’ve had some space.”
That perseverance has also changed the way Emma views her vision loss.
“I think it’s because I can’t see very well that I create artwork that’s uniquely mine,” she said. “Sometimes I’ll paint a flower with two centres or make a mark I didn’t realise was there. Those little differences actually make the artwork more interesting.”
Emma’s paintings are inspired by nature, spirituality and colour. Bright, high-contrast colours help her see what she’s is creating, while acrylic inks, pastels and paint allow her to experiment with textures and flowing forms. Rather than planning every detail, she often begins by creating colourful backgrounds before discovering images hidden within the patterns.
Through painting, Emma has also learnt an important lesson about herself.
“It’s okay to take time and do something I love that helps me relax,” she said. “Not everything has to be about getting things done or providing for the family. I can do things just for me.”
Throughout her journey, Guide Dogs Queensland has remained a constant source of encouragement.
“I get support through psychology, mobility and using technology, and I love all the staff here in Townsville,” Emma said. “I don’t think I could have achieved any of this without them. The support has given me the confidence to stay independent and to attempt things I never thought I’d be able to do with limited vision.”
For others living with blindness or low vision who have been thinking about trying something creative, Emma has simple advice.
“Just start. That’s the hardest hurdle. Once you begin, you build momentum. If you’re not very good at first, don’t worry. It might take a little longer because you can’t see as well, but you’ll get there. Choose something you love, something that brings you peace.”
Emma is already looking ahead to her next goal, challenging herself to complete one new piece of artwork every week while balancing work and family life.
Her story is a reminder that confidence isn’t built all at once. Sometimes it begins with picking up a paintbrush, taking on a challenge that feels impossible, or believing in yourself just enough to take the first step. And for Emma, that first step has led to a growing collection of artwork, and a future full of possibility.
