Instead she uses her emotions to connect with the canvas to create a unique piece that's not only visually stimulating but also healing.

"I am a creator. I use my highly emotional states to create art. It doesn't matter what mediums I have on hand; whatever I have, I use, to express myself," she said.

Sonja will be on hand at Hunter Artisan Gallery and Cafe on Saturday to launch her solo exhibition "An Emergence of Hope."

The exhibition will officially open at 6.30pm.

"I have many styles of art, and I hate being put in a teeny tiny art box. I am not an abstract artist, an expressionist, a water colourist; I do not draw, or make marks exclusively. I do all of these things, and I love doing all of these things, because its what I was destined to do."

Having said that there are a few mediums that Sonja prefers. "And each has its own draw depending on my mood and needs at the time," she said.

"When I need a sense of control and meditation, I make cuts in lino and create linoprints; when I'm sad or angry, or highly elated, I use acrylic and mixed media on canvas to express my emotion; when I need focus I work on fine detail in my water colours; and if I'm stuck creatively, or just want to 'lash out', I use inks and make marks on paper.

"I work at 100 per cent, with all my nerve and fibre to create art, nothing is half-assed, and the anxiety, paranoia, and self-talk I overcome to create my art makes it all the more sweet. I believe in my work, and I'm proud of everything I have achieved," Sonja said.

"I want my art to resonate with my audience. I want You to think. Why did she put that yellow stripe there? What is the significance of that blue square that fades into infinity? What does she mean by that great title, does it reflect the artwork, how does it relate to me?

"I am constantly challenged by my emotions and being able to paint these emotions gives me the opportunity to feel without confronting or offending anyone. Bright colours that contrast and compliment each other bring me great joy," Sonja said.