Michelle Batten

Artist statement
I imagine most people are hit by the sublime when they gaze up at the Milky Way on a clear winter night. The tiny points of light that fill the sky evoke many feelings of awe and insignificance, but also a fondness. After all we are made up of the elements that make the stars shine. As Sagan said, we are made of star stuff.

The way the cosmos is illuminated fascinates me. These lights in the sky have the potential to create colour and life against the blackness of space. A vacuum that is cold, vast and unforgiving. This contrast seen in the sky is what inspired me to create these objects. Black and white. Hot and cold. Life and nothing.

Biography
Michelle Batten is a recent graduate from Sydney College of the Arts, having gone through the Jewellery and Object Design studio. She now works from her home workshop in Newcastle, creating wearable pieces that reflect upon her interests.

Fascinated by astronomy and all things related to outer space, Michelle creates small geometric jewellery pieces that give reference to both the science and science fiction based around our perceptions of the cosmos. She adds an imperfect handmade element to the strict lines seen in geometry, which is inspired by the hand drawn sketches of Renaissance astronomers and astrologers.

Visit Michelle's website for more information.