Melissa Carey QLD
What was the inspiration behind the piece that is a part of the SWELL Sculpture Festival 2021?
I am inspired by this beautiful mesmerising helical spiral form – everything comes back to the spiral, it’s in nature, in our DNA. It also represents the flow of energy for me.
Do you follow a process or plan for each new piece or do you ‘wing it’?
Yes. This piece has a particular method for building as I designed it myself. As this will be the fourth in the series, it will be the same method of building, but in a much larger scale!
Would you describe your artistic journey as a slow burn or a wild ride?
A wild ride! Haha, I truly love the creative process and being able to do what I love is so special.
Can you tell us a little bit more about how you became the artist that you are today?
I have been drawing and creating from a very young age, my great grandparents were both amazing artists and I spent a lot of my childhood at their house. I studied visual arts after high school, but I had no idea what my style was or how to make money out of my art. So I went off into the corporate world, while doing art as a hobby on the side. Suddenly I realised I wanted to make large sculptures and art installations. I have been a full time artist for about 6 years now and I absolutely love it!
Describe your ideal environment where your creative juices flow?
A big warehouse with an art studio surrounded by other creative souls!
Is there an artist or body of work that you would consider your muse?
Pablo Reinoso is one of my fave artists I am inspired by.
If you had to choose 3 words to describe your artistic style, what would they be?
Intricate, flowing, beauty.
Beyond SWELL 2021, is there a forthcoming project you are most excited about?
I am really excited to be planning a solo exhibition for next year.
What does exhibiting in SWELL 2021 mean to you?
A diverse gathering of artworks accessible by everyone from all walks of life in a beautiful location in nature!
Is there anything you do to continue developing as an artist? Would you describe yourself as self-taught or formally educated in your artistic practice?
I was formally trained in visual art, however I am continually trying new things, ways of working, learning from others and growing in my art practice and within myself.
How do you stay connected in the art world?
I love following art on social media and going to local art exhibitions and meeting local artists.
How do you spend your free time when you’re not creating?
I love being in nature, going for bushwalks, acroyoga and firespinning, and hanging out with friends
Who is your biggest supporter?
My friends and family!
The Author
Courtney Stephens is an emerging creative event producer based in Tweed Heads. After a successful career as a Practice Manager, her passion for the creative arts industry has led her to study a Bachelor of Business in Convention and Event Management. She hopes to balance her love for the arts, culture and nature with her strengths in communication and management to create community based events.