Internationally exhibited artist Cher van Schouwen brings her bold and emotionally charged artistic voice to Gallery 360 in West Leederville this November, with her powerful new solo exhibition: Emergence. Running from November 7–27, the exhibition is a celebration of creativity, colour, community — and a powerful act of giving back.
Known for her vibrant portraits, spirited horses, whimsical florals, and richly textured still life, Cher’s work pulses with a refreshing joie de vivre and an unshakable belief in the beauty of life. This new body of work also marks a striking artistic shift — with a surprising number of Australian landscapes making their way onto the canvas.
“I completely surprised myself,” Cher says. “Something about the Australian landscape just lit something up in me.”
But this exhibition is more than a visual experience. It is deeply personal with storytelling and moments of transformation. One of the most intimate works is ‘Salt & Solitude’, a portrait of a radiant Australian girl soaking in sunlight — born from a retreat in Kastellorizo that became a turning point after decades of non-stop work.
“I’ve worked since I was 14, always pouring myself into community, creativity, and care for others,” says Cher. “This collection is about everything I love: courage, colour, connection, family, femininity, rhythm, and soul.”
After exhibiting in South Africa, the UK, the US and now Australia, Cher is proudly putting down roots in WA. She took a full year off to bring this collection to life, exhibiting over 25 pieces and pouring her heart into every canvas. The result is a body of work she describes as her most authentic yet.
“I don’t think I can say I have a favourite piece,” she reflects. “Not because I don’t feel deeply connected — but because each one has its own story, surprise, or transformation. Some canvases were recycled. Some paintings emerged from nothing planned. Some brushstrokes said more than I ever could in words.”
The opening night on 6 November will also serve as a fundraiser for Homeless Healthcare, a Perth-based charity offering medical support and pathways to housing for those experiencing homelessness. The event will be ticketed, with 100% of proceeds going directly to the cause.
“This isn’t just about celebrating art,” Cher says. “It’s about showing up for others — for those who need to be seen and supported in their darkest moments.”
The path to this moment has been anything but linear. When Cher first arrived in Australia, visa restrictions meant she couldn’t work. With two young children, she cleaned houses early in the mornings to help cover rent. From that place of uncertainty came something magical — she began teaching art informally, which blossomed into 14 years of running a nurturing studio that became a creative refuge for many.
“I’ll never forget a doctor walking into one of our early collectives after a long day in emergency. She stood there, watching us paint — and just cried. That moment stayed with me. Art heals. It connects. It brings us back to ourselves.”
Now, after two full cycles of seven years, Cher felt the winds shift once again. The studio closed, a new space opened, and this exhibition was born — out of trust, love, community, and an artist’s unwavering commitment to growth.
“This isn’t just an exhibition,” Cher says. “It’s a celebration of courage, creativity, and coming home to myself.”
Running at Gallery 360 – 176 Railway Parade West Leederville
