In an exclusive interview with Project CBNews, Diane Noble, a 58-year-old artist based in South Africa, shared her inspiring journey from forensic accountant to passionate painter. Noble's story is one of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of happiness through artistic expression.
Early Life and Career
Born and raised in Durban's Bluff area, Noble's life took an unexpected turn when her husband passed away at the age of 34, leaving her widowed at 29 with three children to support. "It was just me and the children, and I needed a job," Noble recounted. This necessity led her to Ernst and Young in Port Elizabeth, where she spent seven years specializing in municipal pension fraud investigations.
Despite her success in forensic auditing, Noble felt unfulfilled. "I could spot somebody ripping off somebody very, very quickly," she said, "but it still was not my passion."
The Artistic Awakening
Noble's transition to art was sparked by an impromptu decision to paint on a rock in Umdloti. "I found this beautiful rock, and it just spoke to me," she explained. This moment of inspiration set her on a new path, leading her to develop her own unique style over the past nine years.
Her artwork now ranges from naive art featuring "fat ladies, skinny ladies drinking wine" to more elaborate projects like her current undertaking - a large-scale restoration piece that brings joy to visitors even before its completion.
Challenges and Rewards
The shift from a stable corporate job to a freelance artistic career hasn't been without its challenges. "Some months, it's tough. You do miss your monthly income," Noble admitted. However, the personal satisfaction she derives from her work outweighs the financial uncertainties. "If you love what you do, you're a happy person inside," she emphasized.
Family and Personal Life
Now a grandmother with her children and grandchildren living in the UK, Noble finds solace and purpose in her art. "I'm so happy when I take something horrible and I make something nice," she shared, highlighting the transformative power of her work.
Looking Ahead
While Noble hasn't yet ventured into formal exhibitions or gallery representations, citing a touch of shyness when it comes to the business side of art, she maintains an active presence on social media. Her work can be found on Facebook under "DJ Art," and she's exploring platforms like TikTok to reach a broader audience.
As our interview concluded, Noble's enthusiasm for her craft was palpable. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of following one's passion, regardless of age or circumstances. "You've got to just keep on reminding yourself who you are," she advised, embodying the spirit of resilience and joy that infuses her artwork.
This interview was conducted by Lindi Tshabangu for Project CBNews.
