Thea Skelsey is a Queensland based artist whose practice looks at deconstructing concepts to arrive at their most simplistic form. Through a process of elimination she cleverly distills complex ideologies and translates them into bold and defining statements that reference her graphic design background and ties to the coastal landscape and lifestyle. Sustainability is at the core of her work - her love for the natural environment is evident in her use of materials opting for painting on cotton which is more durable than paper and hanging on dowel to eliminate the need for framing. Skelsey’s application of paint is slow and meticulous; her exacting brushstrokes rendering the curves, lines and waves that form her distinctive style. Her patience and steady hand a testament to the craftsmanship at the centre of her practice. Skelsey’s designs are eye-catching and effortless, a cohesive display of elements that speak for the time and care taken to achieve them. Thea envisages a life for her pieces that transcends ‘throw out culture’ and embraces what art is meant for - to be seen and enjoyed! Her commitment to utilising fabric remnants and reimagining them as ties, smaller artworks, tote bag straps or pockets favours both thought and discipline. She is endlessly inspired by culture, language and design having lived in The Netherlands, Argentina and Mexico in the last ten years. She worked on numerous commissions abroad where she developed her pared back style that speaks to the integrity of form and function. Her time away became the catalyst for her designs - conceiving a product that was easily transported (folded for ease when moving and ironed flat before installation). This formula resulted in creating her first screen printed work which celebrates The Gold Coast - her home. Thea recognises the tactile quality of her work and loves the handmade process of how she creates. She hopes to diversify into textiles and other functional products in the near future. Thea’s work can be found online and in galleries and shops across Australia.

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