Melanie Macilwain
How would you describe your work?
As always bright and big but currently, my colour matching has some tension. It's moved away from being so heavily monochromatic that encompasses it's own drama with tone. My tension isn't accidental. I am trying hard to make colours form relationships that look like they shouldn't be together. It's a learning process for sure.
Can you give us some insight into your process for creating your artworks?
In a broad sense, my personal process involves a hell of a lot of mistakes. I am self taught so I go through more swings and roundabout then I can count to produce something worthwhile. Usually that is solved through investigating and learning about other artists and processes and a bit of positive self talk.
In the studio, I generally don't tie myself down to completing something particular unless I know I have deadlines then I restrict my creative reign a little to get work done that I need to complete and I know how to complete. That being said, I'll physically need to get into paint prior to starting my day. This is to get my limbs working and connected to my brain, then I head to something that catches my eye, a colour, a canvas shape...
Is there a typical day in the studio or is every day different?
Usually, it is a coffee and walk with my husband, son and dog. I start around 10am and work through till dinner. My working days need to be more strategic till I get more time - so everything is cleaned before I get in there and pre planning on paper or in my diary is a must.
What inspires you when you are creating your artworks?
My inspiration is my love to do what I do, I am fortunate and eager to learn more about the world I am 'working' in. I was raised to be creative and to work with my hands and I think it would be reminiscent of my childhood to enjoy that for as long as possible.
What would your dream project/collaboration be (apart from working with Consequence of Change!?
Well I feel I am pretty lucky already with my partners I have worked with but I would love to part take in the community arts with an installation. I have my ideas but it's a 5 year plan to even have prepared for a grant so I'll just take that idea nice and slow.
Who are your favourite artists and why?
I can take hours but I love so much of what has come before or what is currently being created. I learn so much from what the world has to offer and for different reasons. For instance, Henri Matisse for his large use of colour and boldness, Vincent Van Gogh for his life and passion, Ken Done for being matter of fact about art, Andy Warhol for making a statement and standing strong, Karen Rogers for her joyful timelines.. It's far too hard to pick. Art is so personal and I actually feel terrible if I didn't give you a list a mile long..
