Artists of 2075: Kobie Bosch

Hear how former high school teacher and St Ives local Kobie Bosch found her calling as an artist.

More on St Ives

St Ives resident, Kobie Bosch, never saw herself as a full-time artist. "It happened slowly, almost without me noticing." What started as a love for drawing and colour became a lifelong passion, shaped by every opportunity she had to attend art classes or exhibit her work. “Thirty years later, here I am - a full-time artist!”

Kobie Bosch

Her creative path was unexpected, given her early career as a high school maths and English teacher. With an honours degree in mathematics, she taught for years before realising that both subjects quietly influenced her art. 

"The patterns found in maths and the storytelling of English wove their way into my work." Her compositions, often from her imagination, blur the lines between home interiors and the natural world, merging personal space with the rich Australian and South African landscapes that inspire her.

Opening night, 93x125cm, oil on canvas

"I’m fascinated by the fringes of these worlds," she says. Her most recent work, depicting peahens perched on a mauve settee, reflects this, blending domestic life with nature’s beauty.

A member of The Ku-Ring-Gai Art Society for many years, Kobie values the sense of connection and growth it offers. 

“It’s been a wonderful way to meet other artists, keep learning, and exhibit my work.” For someone who moved from South Africa 20 years ago, Kobie didn’t know anyone in Sydney, so this sense of community has been crucial. “St Ives has become my village. Just seeing familiar faces at the shops or walking in the neighbourhood gives me a sense of belonging.”

Kobie working on her next project

Her advice for aspiring artists is simple: "Know who you are and what your work is about. It may take time, but don’t give up."

When she’s not painting, you might find her enjoying a peaceful walk on one of the various walking trails in St Ives, her favourite winds through the National Park, starting at the end of Warrimoo Avenue. Kobie’s art, like her life, blends the personal with the natural — a journey of creativity and community in the heart of St Ives.

Local Favourites:

• Best Coffee: Somewhere North - Piccolo

• Best Meal: Karoo & Co - Ragu, followed by the Lemon Meringue!