Antonia Mrljak and Maree Homer met each other many years ago, when they were both working in the advertising department of David Jones. Antonia was an assistant stylist, and Maree a darkroom assistant. They became friends instantly. ‘We were both very young and found solace in each other, as we shared a similar aesthetic and vision,’ recalls Maree.
Since then, the pair have both forged impressive careers in their respective creative fields. Maree now works as an editorial photographer shooting food, interiors and portraits, while Antonia is an artist with a focus on painting and illustration. They’ve always been the type of pals who act as each other’s personal cheerleader. ‘We do well in pushing each other to make great work and stay challenged, without having to feel competitive in any way,’ explains Maree.
After many years making work independently, after a few coffees and chats Maree and Antonia recently decided to combine their talents and produce an exhibition together. ‘We are both do-ers, and enjoy a creative challenge!’ says Antonia. Together the pair have created a series of work based around themes of ‘home’, and the emotional and cultural significance of our most intimate spaces. Antonia has contributed paintings and illustrations, whilst Maree had created a series of haunting photographic prints. The resulting exhibition entitled ‘Dwell’, opens in Sydney next week.
DWELL by Antonia Mrljak and Maree Homer
Open from 28 March to 9 April
Sheffer Gallery
38 Lander Street
Darlington, NSW
