Maria Simonelli
Maria Simonelli, a Melbourne based artist, who works predominately in sculpture and is a published author of four books with a focus on creativity.
 
The declining health of the environment and its relevance to all aspects of sustaining life, is reflected through her practice. She believes the arts can act as a powerful facilitator for
social change.
 
She utilises materials that would otherwise be discarded, to create intimate and tranquil sculptural experiences that encourage curiosity and optimism.
 
On Her Shoulders
4 pieces, sold as a set, 2026
Paper, acrylic, wood and metal rods.
 
Art can act as a powerful facilitator for social change.
Recently I’ve been dwelling on family legacy and my matriarchal lineage. This piece is for the women who stood before me, with both fierce and gentle hearts, the unrecognised artisans,
who nurtured my creative process.
 
Inspired by natural forms, texture and time, this series of totem like sculptures symbolise a life’s journey, metaphorically representing its stages and capturing significant milestones. It
marks their strength and spirit as their creative legacy lives on.