Cy Rocchi is a landscape artist who draws inspiration from her encounters with the natural world, infusing her art with the joy of past memories and present connections to the unique bush and coast of Western Australia. Using large palette knives for application, her method includes layering, scraping, removing and blending, capturing the raw beauty of vast open spaces, and echoing memories etched in the mind. Cy draws on her love of the outdoors to convey the freedom and fragility of our coexistence with nature. Purpose guides her process; from engagement with the natural environment, to the swift application of paint, Cy aims to encapsulate the essence of being. Through layers of cold wax and oil, she invites viewers to journey beyond the visual, to feel the pulse of the earth and find solace in its boundless depths.

Q & A:

Where was your most memorable vacation?

A memorable vacation for me was a recent trip to the island of Vis in Croatia last year. It was a trip I took with one of my daughters and it was fun, adventurous, and sentimental, especially since it’s connected to my father’s heritage. We soaked in the beauty of the island and explored its rich history—an unforgettable experience!

What always makes you laugh?

My husband—he’s quick-witted and very funny. Always keeps me laughing!

What is the title & author of your favourite Book?

This is difficult as I’ve read some fabulous novels, but one that I found enlightening was Phosphorescence by Julia Baird. She writes beautifully about finding awe and wonder in the world around us. It’s a deeply personal exploration of resilience, light, and joy—perfect for when you need some inspiration!

When tempted by something sweet, what is it?

If I’m ever tempted by something sweet, it has to be my mum’s pecan pie from when I was growing up. She’s an amazing cook, and no other pecan pie has ever come close to hers. It’s buttery, rich, and perfectly balanced between sweet and nutty—pure nostalgia in every bite!

Who is the Artist who inspires you most?

The artist who has inspired me the most, ever since I was a child, is Claude Monet. His later works, created when his eyesight was deteriorating, are my absolute favourite. Funny enough, someone once asked if I had an eyesight problem myself because my paintings are intentionally muted and blurred.

How do you prefer to exercise?

I love ocean swimming, and I swim all year round with some gorgeous friends—it’s the perfect way to start the day and makes me feel alive.

Do you have a fear, and what is it?

Ironically, I’m pretty terrified of sharks. Ocean swimming is a mix of pure joy and a bit of anxiety for me, as there’s not a single swim where I don’t think about sharks or imagine I’ve spotted one lurking nearby. It’s a weird combo of thrill and fear, but I love the ocean too much to stay out of it!

Where did you grow up?

I grew up on a beef farm just outside of Busselton in the South West, surrounded by open spaces and the beauty of country life. My love for the outdoors has stayed with me ever since, and those childhood memories are a constant source of inspiration. You’ll find them reflected in my paintings, which capture the serene beauty of the land and coastline of the region that shaped me.

What is your favourite quote?

At my son’s university graduation last year, the guest speaker shared an inspiring message about embracing every new challenge and opportunity. One part that stuck with me was his quote: “There’s no 2nd or 3rd step in life. Every step is a 1st! It really resonated, with the idea that every moment is a chance to start fresh, to be bold, and to approach life with a sense of adventure.

If you won the lottery, what would you do first?

If I won the lottery, the first thing I’d do is travel—there’s so much world to see, and I want to experience it while I’m still fit and healthy. I’d fill my days with hiking through breathtaking landscapes, swimming in pristine oceans, and setting up my easel to paint wherever inspiration strikes. And of course, as a food lover, I’d savour every meal along the way, from local street food to fine dining experiences. Adventure, creativity, and incredible food—what more could I ask for?