Power & Purpose

Power & PurposeAustralian artist Michelle Sparks operates out of her gallery and studio space in Brisbane Meanjin. She gives contemporary still life a street edge, using vibrant colours, expressive patterns, and rich textures to make bold statements in any space. After nearly 15 years of teaching, Michelle faced a traumatic incident involving a student, which led her to seek psychological help and leave the workforce. During her recovery, she turned to art as a

serving both as a personal sanctuary and a bridge leading to broader conversations about mental health and community care

I went for a walk through the Noosa National Park recently and took a photo of the cove

and the invisible threads that link us to the earth and each other

From intricate sketches to bold strokes of colour

Creating brings her a deep sense of calm and joy

animal tracks

she gave all of herself to her husband and to the care of their medically fragile children

and coastlines - and their ability to calm or transform her inner state

where the gentle communion with sand and sea provides an essential grounding

Katana has long found comfort in art

This lifelong passion has naturally become embedded in my artwork

She believes that making art lies at the very heart of being on Earth