Solomon Islands

In 2014 I held a studio in the Solomon Islands as part of an Art Haus Residency at the National Gallery of the Solomon Islands. This country (which is made up of hundreds of islands) is a truly remarkable and mysterious place. Despite my westernised view of the exotic, the experiences I had there have only re-inforced my view of the magic and astounding beauty of these Melanesian Islands.

Rock n' roll walking stickcarved iron wood and shell inlay110 x 19 x 9 cm — Rock n' roll walking stick
carved iron wood and shell inlay
110 x 19 x 9 cm

This is a collaborative work with Solomon Island artist John Seda. John is an important figure in the Solomon Island art scene, he has work held in major museums and is often exported for the international market. He works primarily in wood carving.

John Seda and Joel Gailerlino-cut on paper35 x 35 cm — John Seda and Joel Gailer
lino-cut on paper
35 x 35 cm

As well as collaborations I also produced some solo studio work.

Attainment #6 (Paradise bird), 2014acrylic on canvas200x100cm — Attainment #6 (Paradise bird), 2014
acrylic on canvas
200x100cm

Attainment #7 (Ed's Island) unfinishedacrylic on canvas90 x 200 cm — Attainment #7 (Ed's Island) *unfinished*
acrylic on canvas
90 x 200 cm

This is one of the lovely ladies who showed me how they use printing processes in the Solomon Islands to make the Lava Lava

A roadside market in SI with my host family

Studio

I utilise various studio locations in Melbourne and abroad depending on the type of work I make. I have a Research Studio, a Painting Studio, and when making prints I utilise community print studios. I have had studios in different locations throughout the world during residencies and projects as well, my permanent studio in Brunswick is finally complete - Cozens Street - check it out!

Working in a screen-print studio on the Artbox commission "Don't stop - Pop!"

Research studio

I am currently completing a PhD at RMIT University. This is my studio on the corner of Franklin St and Swanston St right in the heart of Melbourne. This studio offers me the contemplative time to experiment and write.

Cozens Street. In 2015 I leased a place in Brunswick, Victoria that was basically an empty shell. I then, with the help of friends, began to build Cozens Street. We wanted to create a space where artists and creatives could work in a community of makers, sharing ideas and skills.

SOLOMON ISLANDS

In 2014 I embarked on a residency in the Solomon Islands. This is my studio at the National Gallery in Honiara. I worked on a series of collaborations with artists I met there. This is Jimmy Sinumoana and Fred Oge, both well respected young artists in SI.