Naomi Pettenuzzo is the creative force behind Ocean Art Naomi—a vibrant body of work that captures the beauty, boldness, and soul of the sea. Born in Melbourne and raised along the windswept coastlines of Portland, Victoria, Naomi’s early connection to the ocean has shaped not only her artistic journey but her entire outlook on life.
Working with acrylics, gouache, ink, pastel, and watercolour, Naomi now pours heart and healing into every piece she creates. Her art has found homes in private collections, resorts, cafés, and hospitals—both across Australia and around the world.
In this conversation, Naomi shares her journey, her creative process, and why the ocean continues to be her greatest muse.
Hey Naomi, what’s happening in your life right now?
I’ve recently been very fortunate to combine my art world with more outdoor adventures and travels while creating on the go. After closing my art studios, I set out to travel around Europe and explore more of the beautiful coastlines of Australia. Connecting with our vast oceans, marine life, and sealife—both here and overseas—has been an invaluable experience that’s deepened my love and connection for all things ocean and art.
Your quote, “My heart and soul are stained… with the inks of the ocean,” beautifully captures your deep connection with the sea. Can you tell us about the first time you felt truly inspired by the ocean?
My first experience of feeling fully connected with the ocean was when I was a very young adolescent girl. My childhood was incredibly challenging, with harsh conditions and a difficult home and school life. I often felt disconnected and unsure of my future.
The one thing that gave me peace, balance, and serenity was escaping to the ocean. Whether I was in it or simply beside it, my heart and soul felt complete peace and clarity when I was there

Growing up in Portland, Victoria, must have been an incredible experience. How did your coastal upbringing influence your artistic style?
Growing up in Portland, Victoria, was like having a large coastal wonderland at my fingertips. I was surrounded by main beaches, surf beaches, hidden beaches, rock pools, alcoves, caves, and canals. I had endless places to explore and feed my inquisitive, imaginative, and creative mind.
All of my senses were awakened—by the ocean smells, the feel of sand and seaweed beneath my feet, and the sight of local marine life. There used to be an aquarium on the foreshore where I could touch sharks and rays.
My youth was spent wandering around the local port, the lighthouse, fishing trawlers (even in restricted areas!), and being active in the Naval Cadets. Everything and everyone around me revolved around the ocean.
Your art is so vibrant and full of life. What emotions or messages do you hope to convey through your pieces?
The colours in my art reflect how I’ve always chosen to see the world. No matter how “grey” my life has been at times—through challenges, tragedies, and loss—I’ve always seen the beauty around me.
The sea can be stormy and rough, crashing down on us, but there is beauty in its beast. In her wake, she leaves calm, serenity, peace, awe, and adrenaline. She fuels the blood in our veins and gives birth to another world beneath the surface that mirrors our inner soul.
Through my artworks, I hope to convey depth, fantasia, hope, romanticism, escapism, joy, and a symbol of freedom.

Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you decide on a subject, colour palette, or medium?
I’ve been very fortunate that over 90% of my works have been commissioned—bringing to life the visions and voices of my Sunshine Coast (QLD) community and fellow ocean, surf, and marine life lovers.
People connect with my deep love of the ocean and request works based on subjects or themes they’re passionate about. From there, I create my own interpretation. Depending on where the artwork will be displayed, I choose between acrylic painting or hand-illustrated ink.
Do you have a favourite medium to work with, or does it depend on the piece you’re creating?
When I began my ocean art five years ago, I experimented with various mediums. My background in graphic design in the early ’90s gave me exposure to both fine art and digital mediums.
Over time, I was drawn to inks and acrylic gouache painting. Both give me the vibrancy and life I want to bring into my original works.

Many surfers feel a strong emotional bond with the ocean—something your artwork also expresses. Do you surf, or feel a similar connection in a different way?
Unfortunately, I don’t surf! I tried many times throughout my youth and adulthood—but usually ended up injuring myself (and sometimes others!). I just couldn’t stay on the board.
Even though my family and friends were all passionate surfers—especially my Aunty Chrissy and Uncle Alan, who surfed throughout the ’70s and shared their stories and photos with me—I eventually accepted that I was more a “mermaid” than a “surfer girl.”
Uncle Alan still inspires me today as he rides waves in his later years.
What’s next for Ocean Art Naomi? Any upcoming projects or dream collaborations?
I’m excited to be busier than ever splashing my ocean art and colours around! I’m currently working on two three-storey mural artworks being installed inside a resort’s lift shafts—so as you ride the elevator, you’ll travel from the ocean’s surface (with a surfer at the top) to the deep sea floor at the basement.
I’m also creating underwater-themed wallpaper murals for a local hospital’s palliative care spa room, bringing a splash of ocean fantasia to the space.
On top of that, I’m collaborating with the Sunshine Coast Music and Events company and working with the Visit Sunshine Coast Tourism Campaign on several exciting large-scale projects (details to come!).
Another exciting project is a new Oracle Card Series, co-created with my Ocean Soul Sister Jodi (Director of Reef Check Australia), featuring 80 marine and sea life subjects paired with their spiritual meanings.
And finally, I’m working on my first children’s storybook about the journey of baby sea turtles.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists who want to create from a place of passion and purpose?
Always trust that love and passion you feel in your heart and soul. Chase your dreams. Ride the waves and the storms. Be you—only you.
Don’t try to be like anyone else. Learn the skills. Practice your tools. Discover the medium that feels like an extension of yourself.
You don’t need to be perfect—sometimes beauty lives in imperfection. It’s okay if not everyone likes your art. The right people will.
Share your life, your love, your heartbeat. Tell the story behind every piece. Let others feel what you’ve created. Through your art, they’ll not only see you—but also find a piece of themselves they didn’t know they needed

How can people connect with you and find out more?
You can reach me via email at info@oceanartnaomi.com.au or call/text 0459 299 297.