For more than three decades, Christel Olivier has dedicated her life to helping others discover the power of creativity.

The 60-year-old teaches art to Grade Eight and Nine learners at Dr WK du Plessis School while also running an art studio in Nigel where she offers art therapy to children and adults.

Olivier’s passion for art began at an early age after being inspired by her primary and high school art teachers.

“They made me feel so alive whenever I was drawing or painting. At first, art helped keep me calm and occupied, but over time I fell in love with it,” she said.

She credits her mother, who designed and made clothes for the family, with nurturing her creative side.

After school, Olivier studied visual art before qualifying as an art teacher. While studying, she exhibited her own artwork and continued developing her skills in drawing and painting.

“I’m a very busy person and I need something that keeps my mind calm. Art is how I do that,” she explained.

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Working with teenagers has become one of the most rewarding parts of her career. Olivier said there is nothing more satisfying than watching learners surprise themselves with what they can create.

“Some learners come into my class saying they wish they could draw or paint but don’t believe they can. Then they finish a project and you should see their faces. The possibilities are amazing,” she said.

She added that art also gives learners facing challenges at home a safe space to express themselves.

“With music playing in the background, they become artists. They can express themselves through their work and begin to love creating,” Olivier said.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Olivier expanded her passion by opening her own art studio after parents approached her for creative lessons for their children.

She later completed qualifications in art therapy, trauma therapy, art psychology and visual art, which has allowed her to support people dealing with emotional challenges.

Today, her studio welcomes people from as young as three years old to adults in their seventies. One of her most memorable experiences involved helping a friend who was struggling to cope with life.

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“I introduced her to positive journaling through art. She rose like a star and started painting and writing poetry through her artwork and then other people wanted to experience it too,” she said.

Olivier said parents have told her they have seen noticeable changes in their children after attending art therapy sessions.

“They tell me their children are calmer, cope better with everyday life and even do better at school,” she said warmly.

Among the success stories she remembers most is a three-year-old girl who struggled with severe tantrums and found it difficult to speak when others were in the room.

“After art therapy and positive journaling, she became a confident little girl. She now competes in art competitions with a smile,” Olivier said.

Olivier believes creativity should be encouraged both at school and at home.

“Art isn’t just about drawing; it can be designing clothes, creating gifts, decorating your room, photography or so many other things,” she said.

Olivier hopes more people will see art as something that belongs to everyone.

“I hope young and old will see art as a relaxing and creative way of living, not just for people who can draw. We are all born with creativity; we just need to practice it every day,” she concluded.