Local artist profile: Michellie Charvat

THIS week we chat with local digital artist and City of Greater Bendigo arts officer First Nations Michellie Charvat, who discovered digital art was a pivotal connection point for her and her creative practice during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What motivated you to become a digital artist?

I started experimenting with digital art in 2020 during the first year of COVID-19.

I’ve been working as an independent artist for around ten years now and prior to 2020 my arts practice had been very project focused.

However, during the first round of lockdowns, six-to-12 months worth of projects were (basically) cancelled, leaving me in a pretty vulnerable position.

I felt unmotivated, uninspired and isolated, like most people at the time.

Discovering digital art was a pivotal connection point for me and my creative practice.

I really appreciated how accessible the medium was for me to use and it opened up new opportunities.

How would you describe your style?

My work is contemporary, often using very bold colours and playing with diverse textures or layers.

I explore my Aboriginal heritage, cultural and personal identity and use my practice as a space for me to process and express the way I engage with the world, my beliefs and growing knowledge, as well as my reflections on how the world responds to me.

I like experimenting with different materials and techniques that either contribute to the meaning of the artwork or challenge me as an artist.

Which other digital artists inspire you?

Charlotte Allingham is an incredible digital artist based in Naarm.

She’s Aboriginal too and is one of the artists that inspired me to give digital art a try.

Her work is strong in Aboriginal themes, culture and expression while often having a really whimsical nature.

Have you had any mentors over your career so far?

I’ve had incredible artists and industry professionals support me in my career and offer me some absolute pearls of wisdom over the years.

I think it’s really important to find people in your life that you can bounce ideas off and talk to.

My (parents) have always been my biggest supporters and my dad has always guided me and helped execute my big ideas.

I also have a great friend, Troy, (who) has mentored me since the very beginning.

What are some highlights you have from your time as a digital artist so far?

Definitely having my digital artwork ‘Keep the Fire Burning’ installed across the windows of the Emporium Creative Hub.

(It’s) always been my dream to contribute to the Bendigo CBD landscape and although that has since come down, for close to 12 months it stood there strong.

How can people check out your work online?

Instagram @michelliejadecharvat_creations

Do you have any exhibitions coming up?

I currently work as Arts Officer First Nations for the City of Greater Bendigo. Part of my role is to curate Djaa Djuwima; our First Nations art gallery located in the Visitors Information Centre.

I have artwork currently being exhibited as part of the Dhelk Djakitj exhibition, which will soon be closing to make way for PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE, opening 8 October.

(I’ll) have some work in this exhibition too.

What would you say to regional aspiring digital artists who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

Go for it! There are great opportunities out there.

I encourage (them) to develop their portfolios and build themselves a strong network, get out to events, support other artists in their community and don’t be afraid to (chase) opportunities.