Wheel thrown & altered, raku fired

35 x 22 cm

About the artwork

Having experienced drought, fire and floods while living in regional areas has forged a
deeper connection to the raw and often harsh beauty and cycles of the Australian bush
and the fauna and flora that create this beautiful place we call home.

'My practice is deeply rooted in series, slow repetition, process and the observation. The
evolution of evolving forms. She works intuitively, observing pattern, texture and
geometry, creating abstract suggestions of the landscape and flora.'

About the artist

Melissa’s love of ceramics began in the 1990s at the ANU School of Art, following earlier explorations in painting and sculpture. Since then, she has built a rich and diverse practice, learning from both traditional craft-based potters and contemporary makers, with strong Western and Japanese influences shaping her approach. She completed her Advanced Diploma in Ceramics at Central NSW TAFE while working in regional arts management, and further developed her skills through studio time at Sturt Craft Centre.

 Melissa has continued to grow through workshops, conferences, and advanced study, most recently completing an Advanced Ceramics Certificate at Central TAFE in 2019–2020. Now based in Western Australia, she works from her home studio in Stoneville and Fremantle, drawing deep inspiration from the natural environment that surrounds her.