Michelle Brown

I am an emerging visual artist living and working in South Western Sydney who identifies as an artist with disability. In 2008, I was diagnosed with Multiple sclerosis and began my arts practice in 2017 to cope with the ever changing progressive nature of my disease. In my artworks, I focus on on the unpredictability of patterns and colour explored through the the visual problems I experience. I have a fascination with the natural environment and landscape which are often depicted as abstract in nature. My artworks have also depicted patterns of disease on my brain and spine and I merge these into my landscapes.

I create art because...

I feel that without art and creating it my life wouldn't be complete - it's often a form of escapism where i get drawn into the colour and details of the landscape and the environment. I don't view my visual changes and the effects of my disability as a negative but rather an interesting thing that can be communicated to others.

I am different to most artists because...

Due to my disability and the progressive nature of MS the way that I respond to the environment will be ever-changing both physically in how I produce my works and also through the lens in which I create my art. It is for these reasons that I enjoy exploring new ways of working and experimenting as a visual artist.

When you look at my art, the thing I want you to feel is...

Due to it's abstract nature, I want my art to be different to different people. Often people have commented on the things they see in my work and I always find this fascinating. The colour and patterns i produce can often transform into a variety of images and feelings for the viewer.

The thing I most want to say to non-artists is...

Everyone no matter their ability can produce art as it's a universal expression where there is no wrong or right way of expressing yourself. Experiment and try something whether that be painting, drawing or doing some craft. Interact with artworks and find your own inspiration.

I believe art is an important part of our lives because...

It is predominately a form of communication where we can both send and receive information about the world in which we live in. It can offer us calm in the chaos and can also be used to challenge us. It often speaks to us in many ways and it can be both healing and transformative.