I really LOVE this space! Signing the lease for this cosy 35sqm studio in 2021 was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
We gave it new life by removing partitions and tearing up the old carpet. With my family’s help, we took on the challenge of scraping and steaming away 50 years of black carpet glue before grinding the concrete floor. After sealing the floor and painting the walls, the studio was ready for its fresh start.
The studio is more than I hoped for — a sanctuary where I can soak in the morning light and take a moment to breathe. It’s a place to reflect, unwind, and dive into creative projects.
The studio comes to life when friends gather for coffee, cake, lunches, and long chats around the old-school art room tables (a Facebook Marketplace find!) With music playing (often Simon & Garfunkle!) while playing with clay, enjoying gooey cheese with a glass of Pinot Noir and browsing the shelves filled with inspiring books.
It's a true haven, and I'm excited to share this special space with you.
The Studio
My friends and family know how much I love the studio space, so when I received the most incredible gift for my milestone birthday, I was completely blown away. It was such a special surprise.
Anna Walker, a dear friend since our university days, is an incredibly talented children's book illustrator and maker. Her beautifully crafted story houses, filled with tiny magical worlds and hand-made scenes, are truly something special. And for my birthday, Anna made a story house just for me! It’s a miniature version of my studio, complete with a little scene featuring our family cat, Mojo.
It's absolutely magical!
The detail is incredible. I love that there's a mini Portuguese tart on the table - one of my faves to have with coffee. Most of all, I am touched that a friend has spent so much time and love making something for me. Thank you Anna!
A Special Gift
After I moved into the studio, I was thrilled to discover that Melbourne artist Robert Clinch had been the previous tenant for 15 years! I was quite intrigued and did some research. I was amazed by what I discovered.
Robert Clinch is a renowned Australian artist, celebrated for his meticulous technique, imagination and distinctive style. His egg-tempera paintings are known for their incredible detail and subtle surrealism, often featuring his signature paper planes against serene cityscapes—it's fun to spot familiar Melbourne landmarks in his work.
I even found some interview footage of Robert working in this very studio and took a screenshot. It turns out we both sit in the same spot under the left window — how great is that!
Robert Clinch, 24 Variations On A Theme By Paganini, 1991, Gouache/Watercolour/Drybrush 92cm x 148cm
Robert Clinch, Solitary, 2008, egg tempera on panel, 45 x 91cm
Robert Clinch, Spartacus, 2013, pure egg tempera on panel, 107cm x 105cm
