Regional Spotlight Artist Profile | Monique Mennie

The inaugural Regional Spotlight exhibition is a showcase of artistic talent from across the region. Developed from an expressions of interest process, the exhibition brings together painting, drawing, photography, and sculptural works by artists living and working in the Wide Bay-Burnett. The Regional Spotlight initiative is an opportunity for artists at any stage in their career, working in any visual art medium, to receive mentorship and share their work at the gallery. Monique Mennie is a local artist in our upcoming Regional Spotlight exhibition opening on 21st September 2024.

How long have you been making artwork?

I was introduced to painting when I was in year 7 in the year 2000, by an Uncle that came to the school and taught some basic skills around dot painting and what utensils can be used.

What are your favourite mediums to work with and why?

I mostly work on canvases, but I have work on different mediums such as clocks, salt/pepper shakers, bowls, cheese boards, lazy Susans, as well as vases and other items that I may come across that I may think could be painted.

Who/what inspires or influences you?

My influences come from the area I group up in Newcastle - Awabakal country. I also try and tie in my Nan and Pop's connections in my paintings. My inspiration is my family they make me want to create my pieces. I also do my painting as a form of mindfulness.

Has your practice and subject matter changed over time? If so, how?

I started young around 12 years old, considering my practice then to now has extremely changed. I now incorporate all different symbols and I mostly do all my dots individual. The dots are raised, giving a textual feeling - this has been my signature style. I have also gotten confident in creating more personalised pieces.

What do you like most about living in the region?

I love the laid-back feeling of this area. It reminds me of where I am from Newcastle/Lake Macquarie areas of where I had grown up. Also not knowing anyone and starting from fresh is what my family needed, and this place has given some peace and has truly helped me grow as a person and help me focus on my art. The connection between my homelands and that of this region is what draws me to stay.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Keep pushing hard and to start a business earlier if opportunity allowed itself. Focus on getting your art out there and just stay true to yourself and what you do is for your culture.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I just would like to say that my art will never be about the money, I do it because I want my culture to be in homes all around the world. I also want people to know Aboriginal people aren't just a statistic, we can achieve anything just like everyone else.

What is the most interesting feedback you have had about your work?

I have been offered feedback regarding my cheese boards etc. and how should they clean the products (I did apply a gloss finishing spray after to seal in paint). Another was I should have used different colours etc. as well as asymmetrical objects do. I just do things as I go. Things don't need to on point.