Untitled 21/24, 2024

This piece continues to explore my interest in the psychology of memory, and how we construct narratives from fragmented recollections. Memories, often replayed unconsciously, can shape our understanding of self and reality, blurring the lines between truth and interpretation. To visualise this I draw on imagery from interior design, architecture and fashion as reflections of the way we present ourselves to the world. This imagery is cut up, reconstructed and abstracted, representing the layers of manipulated memories that we construct and unconsciously live by. Drawing and acrylic under-painting create a foundational layer to the work, adding depth, texture and form. Oil pigment sticks are introduced overtop to create a dynamic interplay of colour and materiality. This deliberate juxtaposition of complementary colours and varied mediums, symbolises the complexity and sometimes conflicting realities within our memories. The vibrant hues serve as a visual catalyst, speaking to space and time, and dimensions of reality.

Born in Aotearoa New Zealand, and currently based in Naarm Melbourne, Toni is an artist specialising in layered, abstract mixed-media pieces.

Drawing inspiration from nature, design, architecture, and the human experience, Toni instinctively manipulates raw line drawings with acrylics and oils to create pieces that, in their purest form, play with dimension, colour and texture, through an elaborate play of layered mark-making.

Toni’s journey to creative expression has not been a straightforward one. With degrees in both Business and Health Science, Toni has worked professionally in advertising and design, and as a naturopath, before following a long-held, intuitive calling and taking the leap into making art. In 2017 Toni completed a drawing course, and lived and worked in New York, which ultimately inspired her art practice. She is currently in her second year of a Bachelor of Fine Art (painting) at RMIT University.