Artist’s Statement
"The idea of art as therapy also interests me. As a graduate of the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Psychology, and my work in Psychosocial Recovery and Rehabilitation, I have come to understand more of human nature and it’s frailty. This has expanded my worldview of cultural differences and enriched what guided my brush hand. I find myself looking for regularities and patterns, consistencies and colour amongst ordinary objects especially our topographical landscape, superimposed with other landscape elevations. These natural constants are comforting amidst our current state of flux and insecurity.
Biography
Michelle has been creating beautiful pieces for many years, with her love of art beginning as a child. Her artist journey has included charcoal, pastels, photography and acrylics. Preferring to experiment with styles, she often favours rich colours.
The impact of her father and his love of photography influences her work, both artworks and photography. Michelle discovered a natural creative talent as a child and took every opportunity to learn any technical aspect within the realm of “art”. This included undertaking Architectural Drawing in secondary school, as well as formal Art throughout senior schooling years.
After moving to the West in the early 1990’s, Michelle took private art classes and attended Rural Art Schools. During this time, she developed a love of pastels, charcoal, pencil and Acrylics.
During her career in Mental Health, art has been an escape, therapy and creative outlet, and in recent years having retreated from mental health profression, has taken her art online selling internationally. In 2022, art has become her full time profession, happily working from her beautiful home in Highfields.
Influences
Many aspects of my world influence my work, but gardens and landscapes experienced on my travels around Australia and internationally are most influential. Betty Franks, and American artist, opened my eyes to intuitive design and style. Her works and her process have formed the backbone of who I am as an artist today. Many historical artist have been the scaffolding of what I do now - especially Gutav Klimpt.
Exhibitions
Downlands Art Exhibition
Regional Council ExhibitionWebsite
Showing the single artwork