Katrina has been an artist for as long as she can remember, winning art prizes in state art shows as early as kindergarten.

As a young girl, she was thrilled to have her drawings accepted by The Age newspaper for other young people to colour in.

Art school followed, where she learnt the methods of graphic art and art for advertising, with a career down this path.

When her children grew up, she took on painting seriously and is now recognised for this.

Her solo exhibition at Cessnock Regional Art Gallery has given Katrina a chance to show off her talent.

Her art ranges from traditional landscapes, portraits, lino cut prints to outrageous and colourful contemporary paintings, large and small, that create beauty and visual excitement.

Her extrapolations of human and animal forms create conversations around social issues and animal rights.

Local Artist Uncovered will be officially opened on Saturday from 5pm to 7pm at the gallery at 16 Vincent Street, Cessnock.

It’s a free event with food and wine, and all are welcome.

The exhibition will conclude March 25. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Call 4991 6619 for more information.