Moody thoughts in cubic form

BY REUBEN BRAND

Budding young artist Michelle Zlatkis is holding her first solo exhibition in what already looks to be a promising career.

Her exhibition Mechanoman is an exploration of the male figure. For the past six months Zlatkis has been investigating the intricacies surrounding this theme, drawing inspiration from life. She never plans an artwork.

‘My inspiration came from ending a long term relationship, breaking it up, so I decided to break up the male body and find new meaning in something familiar and recognisable,’ Zlatkis said.

The result is a collection of images that deconstruct recognisable shape and form, an abstract distortion of beauty and perfection, leaving only cubic silhouettes and moody thoughts. 

Recently graduated from the prestigious National Art School, the 22-year-old has already made an impression. Zlatkis was recently a finalist in this year’s City of Sydney Multicultural Art Competition. She was also awarded second prize in the drawing category of the 2007 Mosman Youth Art Prize for her image of distant and distracted melancholy, Heavy Head.

Zlatkis is now continuing her studies on oil painting under the direction of local artist Roman Lapp.

‘I’ve only been allowed to use black and white paint for the past three months. It has really given me a good foundation and feel for tone and colour balance. Roman is a great teacher.’

She is also working on a group show to be exhibited at Bondi’s Art Moment Gallery towards the end of the year

‘Art tells a story and provokes thought. We all have our own stories to tell and as a community we should respond by investing in the future of young Australian artists.’

Mechanoman is on exhibition at Waverley Library, Denison St, Bondi Junction until July 6. For information contact 9386 7777 or email library_enquiries@waverley.nsw.gov.au