The Crown Derby Bowl by Michaela Laurie

Artist Statement

This year, I have turned my attention to a collection I am calling ‘Loved Objects’. These works combine several loves of mine.

I have long been attracted to fine antique porcelain from Asia and Europe. I use objects which I love in my home, objects I see in my travels and those I see at auction houses to inspire my creative work. I am fascinated by auctions. Wonderful and truly amazingly precious objects created many years ago, come on show for tiny moments of time at the auction house. They are then whisked off to new homes away from the general public’s view. I often wonder how families can part with these unique treasures when they are placed at auction. We are but custodians of these loved possessions for a short time.

Another love of mine is birds. As I grow older, my love and fascination of birds increases. I’m becoming a real twitcher and am amazed at the variety of bird life in our country garden in far south NSW. Some birds are regulars’ Summer and Winter. Others maybe passing through for a day or two, coming down from the Snowy Mountains in Winter or migrating to warmer climates. In Spring, the garden is an orchestra of bird song. Once again, we are custodians. Objects and creatures bringing great joy while they are with us.

In my imagination, the beautiful objects are visited by the many bird species. I love to create magical still life arrangements by combining the things I love – with the creatures I love. A little whimsy is always thrown in for good measure and fun.