Painting in the Negative Class

Hi there! I’m Jo, the founder of Busy B’s Art Hive, nestled in the beautiful Bayview on the Northern Beaches.My journey into the world of making started with a simple, unwavering curiosity to make and create. While I originally qualified as a Primary School Teacher, I always found myself drawn to the "messy" desk—the place where ideas take physical form. After years in the classroom, I realised that my true passion wasn't just in the curriculum, but in the magic that happens when someone—child or adult—discovers they can create something beautiful from nothing.I eventually followed that spark to open my own creative studio. I call it an "Art Hive" because I believe creativity is a communal, buzzing energy. Whether I’m teaching the precise folds of origami, the tactile knots of macramé, or the spontaneous layers of Gelli plate printing, I am constantly "feeding my creative cravings." I’ve spent years attending specialised courses and masterclasses across a huge variety of mediums—from bead weaving and sculpture to mixed media and journaling—because I believe the best teachers never stop being students.Why I Love TeachingHaving a formal background in education means I don't just show you what to do; I understand how people learn. I pride myself on breaking down complex techniques into bite-sized, joyful steps so that even those who say "I’m not creative" leave with a finished piece they are proud to display. My courses focus on having fun and being relaxed and mindful to create flow and enjoyment in a warm, creative studio environment. Each creative session is carefully planned to be engaging, inclusive, and confidence-building. Students are supported at their own level, encouraged to explore their creativity, and guided with clear instruction, patience, and genuine care. Whether you are 7 or 70, I can’t wait to help you find your own creative rhythm and see what you’ll create!