The West Australian Pulse 2026 artist Sarah Panetta on her feel good artwork Bliss in the AGWA exhibition

For Sarah Panetta, painting is a way to slow down, reflect and find comfort amid the pressures of life.

The West Australian Pulse 2026 finalist, 18, is now studying a bachelor of arts at The University of Western Australia.

The artwork depicts Panetta lying on her bed, surrounded by the things she turns to when she needs a break: books, music, films and other comforting pastimes.

“Year 12 was obviously quite a stressful time,” she said. “I wanted to paint something that would be relaxing and enjoyable to work on. It’s about the things I like to do when I’m stressed and the hobbies I turn to when I need a break.”

The artwork evolved across her final year of high school at John XXIII College, with the artist completing the central painting during her first semester before expanding the concept into two additional circular pieces in semester two.

Together, the three works form a cohesive series.

“When I started, I planned it with the idea that if the main one went well, I would build on it later,” she said.

Developing the artwork began with a Pinterest board, where Panetta gathered inspiration and refined the colour palette she wanted to use. She envisioned a colourful, feminine atmosphere that felt harmonious and uplifting.

“I wanted it to feel very happy,” she said. “I like artworks that make you feel good when you look at them.”

After planning the composition, Panetta traced her design and created a pink underpainting before layering oil paints over the top. The rosy foundation helped achieve the warm, vibrant tone that became a defining feature of the work.

Despite her talent, Panetta said she was surprised to be selected as a finalist.

“When my teacher said she was thinking of entering my work, I thought that was really cool,” she said. “But I didn’t really think about getting in. So it was definitely a surprise.”

Seeing her artwork displayed publicly for the first time was both unusual and exciting.

“It was a bit weird, but really exciting,” she said. “The opening night was very fun. Everyone was really positive and it was just a good time.”

As for the future, Panetta is still deciding where her studies and artistic practice might take her. While she is unsure whether she will pursue exhibiting professionally, one thing is certain: painting will remain an important part of her life.

The West Australian Pulse 2026 is at The Art Gallery of WA until September 13, with visitors encouraged to vote for their favourite work in The West Australian Pulse 2026 People’s Choice Award.