Artist Spotlight: Michelle Keighley

We shine the spotlight on artist Michelle Keighley who features in two Block Houses this year, Michelle is no stranger to The Block, having previously been selected by Ronnie and Georgia on The Block in 2021. We got to chat with this talented lady all things art and The Block.

Michelle Keighley features on The Block 2023, her artwork draws inspiration from local landscape on The Fraser Coast Queensland. Her artwork is timeless and beautiful and we can't wait to share Michelle Keighley with you all.

Michelle Keighley traces her love of painting back to her late Grandfather, a talented landscape artist. “The smell of oil, turps and the old furniture of his studio blended together and was seared into my memory” she recalls.

He and Michelle’s grandmother both painted. Then her Mum and sister also took up the practice, so she was never far from a canvas. One of Michelle’s most treasured memories was painting with her Mum Dorothy who sadly passed away at age 46.

It was around a decade before Michelle picked up a brush again. She says, “it has been an emotional journey to end up where I am now as a full-time artist”.

Michelle draws her landscape inspiration from locations mostly along Australia’s east coast. Now living on the Fraser Coast, she continues to seek fresh ideas and opportunities to capture the coastal lighting and flora found uniquely in the region.

Michelle’s bold and emotive landscapes have caught the attention of some of Australia’s leading galleries. Her work has been featured on The Block for a second year and we had to sit down and chat all things The Block 2023.

Steph and Gian featured two of Michelle's artwork in their stunning japandi style kitchen, Banksia on Blue and Eucalypt on Blue are both online at The Block Shop. 

Michelle's work was used in Kristy and Brett's master bedroom and we couldn't love this calming colour palette any more! Stay tuned for more pieces throughout the season.

How long have you been producing your art?

I have painted for as long as I can remember, so early childhood years, but it was 5 years ago that I committed to it as a practice and started making my artworks available to the public.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

I need to spend time amongst nature to keep things flowing creatively. Often a long walk among the coastal banksias where I live will lead me straight back to my studio to begin working on something new.

My creativity also benefits from a good mood in general, so I have found focusing on gratitude and positive things brings its own inspiration.

"Often a long walk among the coastal banksias where I live will lead me straight back to my studio to begin working on something new." says Michelle

How would you describe your art?

The best way I can describe my work is Impressionism but with more spontaneity. I paint readily recognisable scenes and forms but I loosely interpret these but not to the point of symbolism where pure abstract can take us. In other words what you see is what you get. Not much interpretation needed.

Your art features on The Block this year? Feel free to expand as much as you like here please... How did it come about? Which couple? What was your initial reaction? 

I was thrilled to be involved with The Block this year following an amazing collaboration with Ronnie & Georgia in 2021. But this year I am very excited to have all 3 of my artworks picked up by 2 teams, Kristy and Brett in House 3 and Steph and Gian in House 4.

Michelle has had three art pieces selected for The Block 2023, she is no stranger to The Block having featured in Ronnie and Georgia's house in 2021. Her calming artworks are loved by everyone.

What does it mean for you to have your art featured on The Block and be a Block Shop artist?

It has been a pleasure to work with The Block past and present. It is a significant career milestone and to be a featured artist on The Block in combination with The Block Shop has provided me with a broad and engaged audience. The flow-on effect of the exposure certainly keeps me busy in the studio long after the seasons end. 

Favourite Block couple?

Steph and Gian hands down, so glad they chose my work. I totally vibe with their styling instincts. And they’re genuinely lovely people.

Are there any particular artists that inspire you?

Absolutely, there are so many. 

Fellow The Block artist Lizzy Stageman would be one. Besides being so gracious, she creates pieces that speak straight to my heart. 

I have to mention Mike Barr for his amazing streetscapes.  

"The best way I can describe my work is Impressionism but with more spontaneity. I paint readily recognisable scenes and forms but I loosely interpret these but not to the point of symbolism where pure abstract can take us." says Michelle.

Where do you like to create your art?

Most of my work is created in my little studio. Although not big it is well set up to work for me. I love getting out into Burrum National Park or the Isis River for some plein air whenever I can. 

Do you have a playlist / podcast you like to create to?

I actually paint in silence most of the time, but occasionally my mood calls for some tunes to get me flowing. 

How do you fit your art around life/kids?/work- Any tips?

Like most people I’d say it’s work in progress trying to run my practice and keep balance in my life but I’ve definitely seen the benefits of following the principle of Early in the day, Early in the week, early in the month. If I can get things done without procrastinating it relieves pressure and also makes room for the unexpected.

Favourite holiday destination?

I always end up returning to a little coastal camping spot on the North NSW coast called Woody Head. The natural beauty of the Bundjalung National Park is breathtaking. The area is super nostalgic for me too.

A crowd favourite here, "Banksia in its splendour" by Michelle Keighley is simply incredible, this Australian Native gives us that sense of nostalgia we all need. Check out Michelle's full range at The Block Shop.

Hardest person to buy a gift for?

My Husband (aren't they all!)

What would you buy yourself from The Block Shop?

More art 

Favourite house decorating trend?

Japandi

Most decadent thing in your house?

I couldn’t say anything decadent, I’m trying to be a minimalist.

Oldest and/or daggiest thing you have in your house that should be thrown out but you just can’t bring yourself to?

My old Ikea couch and chaise, it’s totally outdated but so comfy.

Favourite room in the house?

I would say my master bedroom, and ensuite. 

Have you built your own house?

Yes, just completed this year. Not with my own hands.

No matter where Michelle's work lands it brings the room to life and we just love that in art. Every home should have a Michelle Keighley in it!

Favourite decor item in the house?

My mid century dining table and chairs

Favourite artwork you own?

My original Mike Barr streetscape. Beautiful gift from my sis.

Most treasured possession (other than kids or partner!)

A couple of little handmade Ceramic coffee tumblers with wooden hand turned saucers. 

A perfect Sunday afternoon would be….

Laying about at my little secluded beach at Burrum Heads, doing very little.

Anything that you are loving at the moment that you would like to share with us?

Since leaving the Gold Coast and settling in a little coasting fishing town I am just appreciating the silence along with unique lighting and flora so much. Being on the doorstep of K’gari Island is a bonus too. 

It's safe to say here at The Block Shop we are a team of Michelle's number one fans, we cannot wait to see her work appear throughout this season of The Block, we are all adding to cart as we speak! Thanks you Michelle for the gift of your time we have loved chatting with you.

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