Growing up in Africa, Paula spent her youth riding horses, daydreaming by the side of a stream, observing wildlife and sketching. She trained as a classical ballet dancer and teacher, and years later studied art under the guidance of the late Carlo Sdoya in South Africa. For Paula, there has always been a burning desire to create, whether through dance, choreography, writing or fine art. Creativity has always been her driving force.

Q & A:

Who is the Artist that inspires you most? Many years ago, I was given the autobiography of David Shepherd by my sister-in-law, who thought it would be of interest to me. His life story really captured my imagination as he successfully put African animals, especially elephants firmly into the public eye. When I finally embarked on my own artistic journey, I was inspired by his ethos. My interest in the preservation of endangered species and wildlife in general has been the driving force in my practice.

Do you have a fear, and what is it? I have a fear of spiders and being locked in a public toilet! Go figure!

Where did you grow up? I was born in a small town called Rusape, Rhodesia/Zimbabwe, which if you blinked while driving through in a car, you would miss it. We lived on a farm about 15km out of town in a spacious house surrounded by a wide veranda. Large herds of kudu, bushpigs, elephants and many animals could often be seen nearby. The farm was named Gorubi Springs which in the native language means bushpig. Rusape holds a very special place in my heart as this is where my sister Eleen was buried at the age of four. One day I hope to go back to find her grave and pay homage to her.

What is your favourite quote? "To thine own self be true" William Shakespeare. In my final year at junior school, it was customary to have a autograph book to collect signatures of your friends and favourite teachers. One of the young male teachers whom all the girls adored signed my book with this quote. I still have that autograph book and have tried to live my life accordingly.

What is your most memorable vacation? Beira, Mozambique with my family. As a child I treasure the memories of walking on the beach with my mother, collecting shells and finding all the little sea creatures hiding in the rock pools. We stayed in the chalets within walking distance to the beach. There was a very large metal skeleton of a shipwreck near the Makuti candy striped lighthouse.

What was the most embarrassing thing you have ever done? At my sister's 21st birthday we were all sitting around a fire on canvas desk chairs at our home. Suddenly my chair seat gave way and I fell clean through with my bottom on the ground and my knees up by my ears. I was firmly wedged in and couldn't move. Everyone packed out laughing. Finally, someone took pity on me and prized me out while someone else held onto the chair! I was mortified!

Do you collect anything? I have collected postage stamps since I was four years old after my mother gave me my first album for my birthday. I also collect vintage enamelware, tins adn inkwells, delft (my husband's family come from Holland) and any old interesting object that sparks my imagination, which could possibly be utilized as a prop in my still life paintings.

What was your favourite toy as a kid? My ballerina doll. I woke up early on Christmas morning when I was 6 years old to see this beautifull ballerina doll staring at me from the end of my bed. She had articulated joints and could point her feet. Her long brown hair was tied up with a pink ribbon and she could open and shut her eyes, which had lovely long eyelashes. She wore a pink tulle tutu and satin ballet shoes. I was one very happy little girl and treasured her.

What would be your greatest accomplishement? My children - I have three precious children, and they have blessed me with five grandchildren!

Do you have a useless talent, and what is it? I can count to 10 in Bushmen. My grandfather lived on a farm in Africa and had many Bushment working for him. I was fascinated with the clicking sounds they made when talking. Grandad Len taught me to count to 10 in Bushmen! I remember him making me repear it over and over again untill I got it right. He did a good job as it has stuck with me!