“As some pieces can take years to create and each piece contains a lifetime of learning different techniques it is not an easy task to hand it on to someone else,’’ Ms Kalenjuk said. 

“Two of my favourite ways to share my creativity with others is to exhibit at art competitions and to donate art to groups where many people can benefit.

“I have exhibited in Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, Moruya and Narooma and there have always been interesting people with a shared passion to meet and to share their new tips and tricks to improve my next project.”

Ms Kalenjuk said she liked to use recycled items in her art, such as paper products for paper mache and origami work.

“Another inspiration comes from the Montague Art and Craft Society’s plein air group that draws and paints at local beauty spots on Tuesday mornings,” she said.

Because groups often fund-raise for worthy causes she has found a way to assist them by donating a relevant art piece for use as a raffle prize or, perhaps, in a silent auction.

“My first donation was in 2007 to a Rotary Group in Canberra, where they raised funds for community projects by raffling my paintings,” Ms Kalenjuk said.

“As an animal lover, I also donated one of my works to a dressage club to help them raise funds. The first painting I donated to Montague Art and Society Craft did help raise funds for their website and my second was raffled at one of the society’s Open Easter Exhibitions.” 

Ms Kalenjuk said the latest donation that she is really pleased to share with the public is now on display at the Narooma Visitors Information Centre. 

“Her name is Grace, and as the turtle was painted on a recycled surfboard using an airbrush and metallic paints, the work is more suitable as a decorative item,” she said.

“To me, the surfboard represents the lifestyle and community spirit of Narooma.

“Just like when you’re riding the waves of life, it can be a lot smoother if you have a flotation device to make the journey uplifting and balanced – just as it is when our whole community comes together to help one another.

“To me the turtle holds a meaning of wisdom and endurance and that’s why I have given it a painted finish similar to a mother of pearl shell, to represent the many changes in life.

“I hope you enjoy her as much as I have enjoyed painting Grace,” Ms Kalenjuk said.

For your chance to win “Grace” - the turtle on the surfboard - you need to head to Narooma Visitor Information Centre, where “Grace” is on display, awaiting a new home and the tickets are being sold.

All funds raised from the raffle will go to Montague Art and Craft Society, a non-profit community group. which promotes arts in the area through a range of activities.

Ms Kalenjuk thanked the staff at Narooma Motors for donating the metallic paint used to give the surfboard artwork its unique look.

For more information about the Montague Art and Craft Society or anything to do with their activities in the area you can phone the Narooma Visitor Information Centre on 4476 2881.