Eulogy for Elsje
by Louella Woodham with Airynaa Tannberg

My name is Louella and I have known Elsje for the past 11 years, as a talented fellow artist, and wonderful friend.

Elsje, Audrey, (who would be here today but is overseas), Airynaa and myself began our artistic journey together doing art classes in Terrey Hills.  We were grouped together in a garage, and it was the beginning of many paintings in garages and a great and lasting bond…

When we finished the course we continued to paint every Monday for about 5 hours a day firstly at Elsje’s lovely home in St Ives, and then in my studiage in Greenwich (another garage).  Audrey and Airynaa would make the trip up from Wollongong every week, an example of the commitment and enjoyment in all getting together.

During this time we not only shared many creative moments where we experimented, critiqued and encouraged each other with our work, but we also shared in each others life journeys, the ups and the downs, the travels, past learning experiences, and funny stories.  Also lots of lovely lunches, especially when it was Elsje’s turn!

I have special memories of the trips to art galleries and the Archibald prize every year.  Supporting each other’s exhibitions and events, and celebrating the sales and commissions we had along the way.  Our Christmas outings were always great fun exchanging gifts, such as these beautiful portraits of our dogs from Elsje.

When you are painting you are more open and vulnerable, to allow the creative energy to flow through you, and at times each of us shared our personal struggles, often expressed in our work, where we felt protected in the sacred space we had together.

I particularly being the youngest of the group found the wisdom and counsel from my older friends so helpful and special, and I will always treasure those times we had together…

Elsje, had many challenges along the way, but she always inspired me with her inner strength, her positive attitude and hope, and during my darker days she was a great support and trusted friend, who always gave me the faith to persevere and follow my dreams.

I think this is her lasting message to us all to never give up, and to enjoy every day because you never know when life will be taken from you, and it is such a precious gift.

We art girls know of her great happiness and love for life in these last years, and I find great comfort in the fact that she was able to live out her dream with Geoff in Wollombi, and that her paintings will be also live on as a testament to her passion, and will be treasured forever, as will her memory.

We love you and will miss you so much Elsje . . .