Ms O'Bryan's exhibition AQUEOUS - made of water explores the emotional connection between water as an essential life force and the creative process of transformation and growth.

The collection of abstract paintings are energetic and expressive, using the fluidity of water and paint to create organic floral shapes.

Ms O'Bryan is a successful graphic designer and author, who after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer stepped back and re-evaluated her life.

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This is when she realised she wanted to paint, just like when she was a teenager.

"In recovery I had some time to heal and get better in terms of both my mind and my body," Ms O'Bryan said.

"And that's when I was like, I can't not be true to who I am anymore. So I decided to put down the designer pens and pick up the paint brushes."

Growing up in the Maitland area, Ms O'Bryan made the move to Lorn almost five years ago, and said it's extra special to have her first solo exhibition so close to home.

"It feels so good, it's such a homecoming," she said.

"I couldn't be more happy given that there have been a couple of roadblocks but yes, it means that I can share it with my family and friends who are here, the community and locals, so it makes it even extra special."

The flower farms all over Maitland have been a great source of inspiration for Ms O'Bryan, especially the Lorn Rose Farm, the flower farms at the back of Horseshoe Bend, and one behind Pender Place.

"There are all these amazing people who are growing flowers and produce, and just being in Lorn too, it's a constant inspiration," she said.

Ms O'Bryan has used the changing and adapting nature of water and creativity to flood raw canvas with watery glazes and veils of paint with layers bleeding through the work.

Ms O'Bryan's next project is to launch a six-month creative coaching and mentoring program, designed for passionate people who are looking to improve their confidence.

AQUEOUS - made of water will be on exhibition at The Owens Collective (101 Maitland Road, Islington) from Friday, April 29 to Sunday, May 8.

An opening event will be held on Saturday, April 30 from 4pm to 6pm.

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