Local artist and designer Emma Veiga-Malta has had a busy few weeks - selling six pieces, welcoming more than 200 visitors and filling Kiama’s Old Fire Station with colour, energy and conversation.

Her exhibition, which wraps up on Wednesday, features three distinct collections - blue and white ceramic-inspired works, bold abstract florals and expressive nude life sketches - each reflecting the breadth of her 27-year creative career.

“Sales were looking a bit bleak at first,” she laughed, “but the weekend changed everything.”

Emma's sketchbook: Supplied by The Bugle

Veiga-Malta’s creative journey began early.

“My earliest memory is lying on the floor with my dad as he drew a bus with my name on it. One minute it was blank cardboard, and the next, magic - that’s when I fell in love with art.”

After years running her own design business, she decided to “create for herself again”, hosting her first solo show at Gerringong Library and Museum (GLaM) last year.

Blue and white paintings: Supplied by The Bugle

Now based in Gerringong, she’s deeply involved in the local art community - a member of several societies and vice-president of the Shellharbour City Art Society.

She’s also the founder of the Creative Business Summit, a conference she launched to help creatives learn how to turn their passions into sustainable careers.

“There’s so much creative talent, but not enough education on the business side,” she explained.

“So I decided to build something by creatives, for creatives.”

For Veiga-Malta, the heart of it all is community.

“Nothing beats in-person connection. People are craving it more than ever,” she said.

Mini flower painting: Supplied by The Bugle

“That’s the best part - meeting people, sharing stories, and creating together.”