Deirdre Kohler was born in 1975 Port Elizabeth, South Africa and after completed her schooling in Grahamstown she studied IT. In 1998 she started a website company. She left the company 5 years later is now consulting as a business analyst and project manager; working mainly in managing data and communications.

In 2006, after the birth of her third child, Deirdre was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Her husband, James suggested that she try painting as an outlet and bought her a canvas and basic paints and Deirdre started painting with an old paintbrush. After many compliments about her work she started to display it in offices and home. At this time, a few people recommended that she display her work in a gallery.

In August 2008 Deirdre underwent brain surgery. During her recovery time, she spent time painting and maintaining her blog website about her experience with a brain tumour. The website is http://kohlersprojects.blogspot.com The tumour is still under treatment.

Her abstract paintings uses colour and texture to express the subject. Most of the paintings deal with current situations / inspirations. Her paintings are large and bold – the largest measuring 2,5m x 1,8m.