Sulene Nortje
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art and have spent nearly 15 years working as a Conceptual Artist, exploring themes of identity, connection and expression. My artistic practice has always been deeply rooted in the belief that creativity is a powerful tool for expression and communication.
Since immigrating to Aotearoa New Zealand, I have transitioned into a frontline role as a Corrections Officer – a position that has profoundly shaped my perspective on the power of art in therapeutic and rehabilitative settings. This role provided an unexpected but profound opportunity to apply my creative background in an unseeingly harsh / enclosed environment. I found that art – both the process and the dialogue it inspires – could open meaningful pathways to connection with the men in my care. By encouraging self-expression and reflective thinking through creative means, I witnessed firsthand the potential of art to support emotional wellbeing and personal transformation.
With my foundation grounded in Art, woven together with my creative practices, combined with frontline experience in a custodial environment, lead me on a path to deepen my understanding of therapeutic application of the arts. Pursuing a post graduate diploma in Creative Arts Therapy will enable me to formally integrate my artistic and professional experiences into a therapeutic practice, and to contribute more intentionally to the emotional and mental well-being of others – particularly those who may not otherwise have access to supportive, creative spaces.
Obtaining my postgraduate diploma will open the path to further study a Masters of Creative Arts Therapy (clinical) which will allow me to practice.
Granted July 2025













