Sisters combine artistic talents through Swellarts

Hand-carved stone sculptures will feature in the garden of creative duo Carolyn McKinnon and Meryl Hodgson in Point Lonsdale.

The twin sisters have transformed the ‘bloke’s shed’ in their backyard into a studio for Swellarts, combining their artistic talents in two very different media.

Carolyn keeps busy with her stone-grinding and silversmithing.

She loves to explore the possibilities held in rough rock such as Australian jade, or in sawing and rasping through ancient blocks of limestone.

Having started her artistic career as a gold and silversmith, 12 months training in stone carving in New Zealand opened new possibilities for sculpture.

“I enjoy the change in scale from jewellery to sculpture,” Carolyn said.

“I have lived in some beautiful landscapes – the Grampians, Victoria’s alps and now on the coast, and those environments have shaped the motifs and concepts in my artwork.”

Meryl heads out to the beach and nearby harbour for her inspiration with the camera.

“I just love to become absorbed in the minutiae of beachcombing – it’s very relaxing,” she said.

“When I take a second look at my snaps, I am often surprised by what close-up studies I find contained within that first photo.

“There are so many stories to share from this coast, be it from nature or from our maritime past.”

Meryl’s photographic posters and embossed paperwork will be on display with jewellery and sculpture created by Carolyn at Venue 21, 186 Fellows Rd (corner Grimes Road) Point Lonsdale.

For more information, visit swellarts.com.au.