Flowering Gum III

I love flowering gum flowers for their vibrant, feathery blossoms that feel both delicate and wild. They make me think of Australian landscapes, full of resilience and beauty. Their unique shape and soft texture always spark joy and inspiration. The light in the scene is warm and natural, with a hint of shadow that adds depth without feeling too heavy. It’s the kind of piece that brings a bit of nature indoors, effortlessly elegant but not overly polished. To see more of my work, search Michelle McKinnon above.

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More work coming soon! I’m Michelle McKinnon, a South Gippsland based artist working primarily with oil paint, creating native flora still life paintings and limited edition art prints.

My practice centers on still life paintings of Australian native flora. I’m drawn to their character and quiet beauty, as well as their strong structural, almost architectural qualities. A single stem or carefully arranged grouping can hold just as much presence as a wider landscape.

I grow many native plants in my own garden, not only for their beauty but as food and shelter for local birds and insects. Spending time observing these plants — how they grow, move, and are structured — is an important part of my process. I often create my compositions from imagination and memory, using what I’ve studied and observed to sketch and develop each painting in the studio.