Where Light, Texture, and Colour Collide - Mi Studio
From teenage sketches to the luminous glow of glass art, Sue McFadden’s creative journey is a tapestry woven with rich experiences, evolving passions, and an enduring love for colour.
Sue’s artistic path began with drawing and painting in her teenage years, but as life took its course, her creative pursuits were set aside. However, living abroad in Australia, the UK, and Europe exposed her to iconic galleries and museums, reigniting her creativity and passion for art.
For years, the memories and artistic influences from her travels simmered beneath the surface - until Sue embraced creativity full-time, immersing herself in pottery. The rhythmic spinning of the potter’s wheel became both a sanctuary and a source of artistic fulfillment, while experimenting with glazes satisfied her deep connection to colour.
With a range of artistic expressions vying for her attention, Sue finds it challenging to commit to a single medium, instead thriving on experimentation. She continuously blends past techniques with fresh ideas, crafting works that are both innovative and deeply personal. Her fascination with light, texture, and colour eventually led her to glass art, where she harnesses the magic of sunlight filtering through glass, creating an interplay between light, shadow and of course colour.
Drawing from her ceramics background, Sue skilfully handcrafts her own glass moulds to bring her latest visions to life. She also creates porcelain panels to paint on, recently exploring new ways to embellish her glasswork with paint and enamel, adding layers of depth and complexity.
Sue’s artistic evolution has culminated in the opening of Mi Studio - a newly established gallery and creative space at 304 Matakana Road, which she runs alongside her husband, Joe. Inside, the walls proudly display a collection of her varied work: intricately designed ceramic pods adorned with intertwining vines and organic forms, vibrant glass birds, and striking paintings on handmade porcelain panels.
Passionate about fostering creativity in others, Sue plans to offer classes for aspiring artists and build a thriving community of art enthusiasts. Looking ahead, she hopes to host pop-up exhibitions featuring the works of other local artists, making Mi Studio a hub for artistic expression and inspiration.
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