Michelle Mischkulnig

Who could resist the riot of colour that is a hallmark of Michelle Mischkulnig's textiles. Judging from the huge success of her recent exhibition at Yering Station (where she sold 80% of her work), not many. She almost apologises that all of her work is happy, "cause I have a happy life", she says. Oh lucky thing... and how wonderful that we can all bask in the glow of that via her beautiful textiles. Compliments for her work abound. This one,  "It's brought so much joy into our lives." is a favourite of Michelle's.

It didn't surprise me to hear that Gustav Klimt is an influence.  Like Klimt's work, Michelle's is highly decorative. The rhythm of life is also a constant preoccupation. The work below grew from observing a favourite, local tree, over the seasons of the year.... it might be called Four Seasons in One Day.

This magnificent lacework is made using water soluble fabric.

Michelle, studied textile design at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, straight out of Secondary School.  She has worked with textiles ever since.

As a local, she's been involved with the Stonehouse Gallery in Warrandyte for the last 14 years, taking on the role of one of its directors over the last 10 years. During the month of May, Michelle will be exhibiting a range of art garments at the Stonehouse Gallery.  The exhibition is called Threadelicious. She loves being in contact with the other creative people involved there. ( There are 18 artisans who exhibit at Stonehouse.). In June of this year, the Stonehouse Gallery will celebrate its 40th birthday with a retrospective exhibition.

Her work is also available at Edges Gallery in Glenhuntly Road, Elsternwick.

Michelle can be found every weekday morning toiling away at her sewing machine by 8am.  She often forgets the time.  How lovely to be surrounded by fabric and colour all day long.  She was working on this piece (below) when I arrived...the influence of a recent trip to Spain is evident here.

If you would like to watch the progress of Michelle's work, follow her on Facebook.

All work in this post is Michelle Mischkulnig©