Mel, 2024

Kat Weir
born Aotearoa/New Zealand 1983, Australia from 2007

Mel 2024
oil on linen

‘This portrait captures the essence of Melanie Milne, a seasoned tattooist and artist, within the intimate confines of her meticulously revamped home bathroom. She took on this DIY project while dealing with COVID and the early stages of pregnancy. This painting reveals a poignant moment in Mel’s life – her radiant presence during pregnancy, just after her surprise wedding during what was initially perceived as a baby shower. Mel is an inspirational figure, and I am fortunate to work alongside her and to count her as a friend. Her journey, marked by creativity, resilience and generosity, exemplifies the embodiment of a true artist and a remarkable individual.’

Kat Weir is a Naarm/Melbourne-based artist whose practice encompasses painting, digital illustration and tattooing, with each medium complementing and informing the others. Weir’s recent portraits focus on female creatives and the depths of their artistic experiences.

© The artist