About Michele

I am an Australian artist who lives and works on a small rural property nestled amongst rolling hills of the Yarra Valley in Victoria. I also work from the Goldfields of central Victoria.

I paint with oil and acrylic, working loosely with expressive mark making and earthy palettes. I explore the brilliant light and vast space of the Australian bush through the use of exposed grounds, textured layering and often a perspective that gives the viewer a sense of elevation over the landscape.

My creative practice flows from my connection with nature and a fascination with the history and stories of our landscape. My studio time is balanced by walks though local bushland and along the Yarra River with my border collies, Pip and Paddy. This immersion in my local area, and a passion for travel throughout regional Australia, are constant sources of inspiration for my expressive landscapes.

I love to work ‘en plein air’ (on location) in small studies that capture the essence of a place. They become prompts to develop intuitive works from memory when I return to the studio. My aim is always to invoke the spirit of the bush or coastal regions I visit. I hope to translate the experience of having all senses stimulated and calmed by time spent in nature through my art.

Michele Owen with 'Abundance'

I’m delighted to have received an offer from the Victorian College of the Arts (The University of Melbourne) to undertake post graduate studies in Visual Art commencing 2023.

Previously I am trained in design and colour and have taken a self directed approach to my formal art education. I’m fortunate to have studied with many highly regarded Australian and international artists. Before reigniting my love of painting I had a meandering career in marketing, communications, project management, and as a health practitioner. I now embrace life as a full time professional artist and find great joy in exploring its possibilities.

I have exhibited in Sydney and Melbourne and my work is held in private collections in Australia and internationally. I have been a member of the acclaimed Nillumbik Artists Open Studios trail opening my studio to visitors twice a year. I now open my studio by appointment and for special events.

My original artworks are available for purchase from gallery exhibitions, and my studio and online stockroom. Please subscribe to my newsletter to be the first to find out about forthcoming exhibitions, events and new artworks.