28 May – 16 June 2015
about the exhibition
Melinda Schawel is a painter and print maker who has always been drawn to the physicality of the creative process. Although her works are two-dimensional, sculptural elements are prominent through the addition of assemblage and collage components in her landscape inspired compositions. Melinda often starts her work with a rip or a drip on the paper before building up the composition by further drawing, inking, stamping, drilling, erasing and perforating. Of her work Melinda says, “Regardless of the medium, the physicality of the process is extremely cathartic and allows me time to process some of the harsh realities of life but also more importantly to recognise the beautiful, delicate moments that appear in the most unexpected places. My work for this show is a reminder to be present in the moment”.
Born in Illinois, USA, Melinda Schawel received a Bachelor in Fine Art and Communication from the University of California Santa Barbara in 1993 and a Postgraduate Degree in Printmaking from RMIT in 1996. She has exhibited regularly since 1995 and her work is represented in numerous collections including the National Gallery of Australia, Artbank and the Royal Museum of Fine Art, Antwerp.
