Miranda Skoczek · Antiquities to Psychedelia

'Amphora,' 2014, oil and enamel on canvas, 184 x 123cm

'Pink God and Greek coin,' 2014, oil and enamel on linen, 214 x 184cm.

'Theodora,' 2014, oil and enamel on linen, 184 x 154cm.

It's no secret we LOVE the work of Melbourne based painter and colour-queen Miranda Skoczek.  Miranda paints densely layered, fantastical works on canvas, and also creates exquisite works on paper in her distinctive handmade acrylic frames.  In person, Miranda is also almost as colourful as her canvases - both her wardrobe and her home are full of wild colour and pattern, and Miranda herself is the most vibrant character, brilliantly talented, entertaining and just a little bit nutty, in the best possible way! Now I know I'm prone to exaggeration at the best of times, but I have to say, I think Miranda's latest body may be my most favourite EVER.  Entitled 'Antiquities to Psychedelia', this exhibition, opening at Koskela in Sydney next week, presents a slightly new direction for Miranda.  Referencing ancient symbols and historical artefacts, and working with a moderately softer palette than usual, this exhibition shows us a slightly different side to Miranda's work. 'Surveying histories and symbols, and the random coupling of vivid geometric shapes with ancient imagery, these paintings explore the possibilities between old and new, fantasy and personal encounters' explains Miranda.  As always, the paintings are full of energy and optimism, and in Miranda's own words, 'are testament to the pure joy of image making'.  With references from Ancient Greece, Hinduism and shamanism, these works draw the viewer into Miranda's inner world - a rich, buzzing, painterly psychedelia. Antiquities to Psychedelia by Miranda Skoczek Open 3rd to 25th May 2013 Koskela 1/85 Dunning Ave Rosebery, NSW

'Antiquities to Psychedelia,' 2014, Guache, ink, vinyl and collage on Arches paper in perspex frame, 49 x 36cm

'Antiqities to Psychadelia 3', 2014, Mixed media collage on Arches paper in perspex frame, 49 x 36cm.

'Antiquities to Psychadelia 4', Mixed media collage on Arches paper in perspex frame, 49 x 36cm