Awards & Recognition
“Light Overcomes Darkness” was displayed in the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), Sydney in October 2024!
Gift of Dreams
Bronze Award in the Camelback Gallery in Scottsdale, Arizona, USA “Abstracts with Blue” 2022 International Juried Visual Arts Competition for “Gift of Dreams”
Gift of Dreams was designed in tribute to the wonderful work undertaken by HMRI, where the artwork was donated to the auction at the HMRI Gala Ball 2022. HMRI is close to Michelle’s heart as in 2014 her father was diagnosed with brain cancer and his tumour was donated to the centre’s biobank, as well as her uncle suffered a stroke in 2016 and has participated in several stroke research projects.
Light Overcomes Darkness
"Light Overcomes Darkness" was undertaken in ode to International Women’s Day and is a self-reflection portraying Michelle Lawson’s struggles of being a woman working in multiple male dominated industries. Symbolising three decades: starting in the top left quadrant, moving down to the bottom right, displays the many personal challenges Michelle has overcome to climb to the top of her profession, including how she has passionately advocated and led Women in Mining groups, until recently semi-retired to enjoy a great work/life balance. The gold highlights receiving several awards at State, National and International levels for being a role model & champion of change.
Michelle Lawson has received 15 international awards, had 3 of her artworks featured on billboards in Times Square, New York, and had this piece displayed in the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) in Sydney!
“Light Overcomes Darkness” is an international award-winning piece, receiving the following titles:
Exhibition Winner for Excellence Art Achievement in the first Blue Art Exhibition 2023 with Artist Space Gallery in California USA
Finalist Award in March 2023 virtual “Women” exhibition at HMVC Gallery in New York
Finalist Award in the March 2023 International Art Competition “Abstract” with Art Room Gallery
The original artwork was donated to the International Mining and Resources Conference + Expo (IMARC) to raise funds during its 2024 event for the Stars Foundation, which empowers and mentors First Nations girls and young women across Australia.
“Gift of Dreams”
“Renewed Beginnings” was displayed on a Billboard in Times Square, New York in February 2023!
Bright Knowledge
Finalist Awards in the “Colors” 2023 International Arts Show with Grey Cube Gallery for “Bright Knowledge”
Bright Knowledge a commission where the client wanted something large and colourful. With this piece I wanted to experiment with a rainbow and the use acrylic inks, which is now my signature style. Super happy with the outcome and so is my client, winning!
This has now blossomed into several artworks in this series.
“Gift of Hope”
Renewed Beginnings
Finalist Award in February 2023 virtual “Paradise Pink” exhibition at HMVC Gallery in New York for “Renewed Beginnings”
“Renewed Beginnings” This artwork symbolises the beginning of 2023, with a fresh start and renewed perspective. Painting with no expectations, but to include the dominant colour of magenta and a few teal highlights, I welcomed the uncertainty with brush strokes, multiple layers and textures that purely feel right. The final layers are the most fun with my signature ink markings.
“Bright Knowledge”
Gift of Hope
Finalist Award in the March 2023 International Art Competition “Abstract” with Art Room Gallery for “Gift of Hope”
“Gift of Hope” was designed in tribute to the wonderful work undertaken by the Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF) where the artwork was donated to their 2022 Magic Ball charity auction. MHF is close to Michelle’s heart as in 2014 her father was diagnosed with brain cancer and despite undergoing a craniotomy, radiation and chemotherapy he sadly passed away 4 ½ months after diagnosis. It is Michelle’s hope that with continued fund-raising efforts and research, there will one day be a cure for this terrible disease, so other families won’t go through what they did…
Yesterday is But a Dream
Finalist Award in August 2023 virtual “Freestyle” exhibition at HMVC Gallery in New York for “Yesterday is But a Dream”
"Yesterday is But a Dream" is a heartfelt celebration of the Hunter Medical Research Institute's (HMRI) 25-year journey and its profound impact on countless lives. This artwork pays tribute to HMRI's dedication to medical breakthroughs, offering a glimpse of hope, joy, and the interconnectedness of human experiences.
The canvas becomes a vessel of commemoration, uniting science and art in vibrant colours and infinite possibilities. Dreams realised through determination pave the way for innovative medical treatments, renewing hope for a better future and even cures. This piece embodies an ode to the past, a testament to the present, and an inspiration for the future—an ever-present reminder of the power of dreams in shaping reality.
The artwork reflects the intangible thread that binds dreams, hope, and community support, illustrating their fusion in shaping a brighter future. Just as HMRI researchers explore uncharted territories, my creative process starts with an open heart and a pre-selected colour palette, allowing brush strokes to flow intuitively, creating layers and textures that emerge organically.
Mirroring life's complexity, the artwork captures the multifaceted nature of medical research. As the piece nears completion, the most exhilarating phase begins—a fusion of acrylic ink markings, adding the signature style that breathes life into the canvas.
Every stroke exudes hope, echoing the triumphs over adversity witnessed in the journeys of my father and uncle. Their experiences are woven into the artwork, symbolising the power of collaboration between medical professionals and those facing severe health challenges. The piece stands as a testament to the possibilities that emerge when dreams are nurtured and supported by a caring community, serving as a reminder of the transformative impact of HMRI's work.
“Yesterday is But a Dream” was displayed on a Billboard in Times Square, New York in August 2023!
“Velley of Hope - View from Cradle Mountain” was displayed on a Billboard in Times Square, New York in September 2023!
Valley of Hope – View from Cradle Mountain
Finalist Award in September 2023 virtual “Influence” exhibition at HMVC Gallery in New York for “Valley of Hope – View from Cradle Mountain”
"Valley of Hope, view from Cradle Mountain" is a deeply personal and evocative artwork I crafted, profoundly influenced by the Mark Hughes Foundation's inaugural ladies' trek. This piece is not just an artistic expression but a tribute to the valiant women who braved the ascent of Cradle Mountain in Tasmania. Their journey, captured in the poignant photos taken along the way, deeply resonated with me, reminding me of the strength and resilience inherent in all of us.
Having lost my father to brain cancer in late 2014, the cause championed by the Mark Hughes Foundation holds a special place in my heart. Through my art, I sought to encapsulate the essence of this empowering expedition, reflecting the overwhelming emotions of elation and triumph felt by those who reached the summit. The artwork's vivid hues, textures, and abstract patterns symbolize the vigour and tenacity needed for such a demanding climb. Simultaneously, its serene and harmonious ambiance mirrors the awe-inspiring beauty of Tasmania's towering peaks.
Irruptive Freedom
Finalist Award in the “Bold Abstracts” 2023 International Juried Visual Arts Exhibition with Camelback Gallery in Scottsdale, Arizona, USA for “Irruptive Freedom”
"Irruptive Freedom” is the first of the Freedom series, created on fine Belgian linen with high quality pigmented acrylics and mediums, to assist in the very fine transparent multi-layers that are intuitively placed with freedom of movement and flow. I produce artwork that is meant to be a moment of revelation and joy. The piece also incorporates pencils, and the final layers consist of my signature ink markings. My way of using distinguishing details and multiple layers add texture that is unique to my creation. This succession of artworks is aptly named Freedom as I found the whole process liberating, exciting and rewarding. With freedom you are not limited by anything, and you gain an understanding of the essence of life…
“Irruptive Freedom”
“Simplicity”
Simplicity
Finalist Award in May 2023 virtual “Abstract is Abstract” exhibition at HMVC Gallery in New York for “Simplicity”
“Simplicity” explores the vast and emotive power of nature through abstract expression. The dynamic brushstrokes of deep blues, teals, and blacks evoke the turbulent energy of an ocean, contrasted with a calm, light sky above. The sweeping black lines intersecting the scene suggest both movement and stillness, capturing a moment of raw intensity balanced by quiet reflection. “Simplicity” invites viewers to find serenity within the complexity, echoing the tranquillity and strength that lie at the heart of nature's vast landscapes.
Emerald Delights
Finalist Awards in the “Colors” 2023 International Arts Show with Grey Cube Gallery for “Emerald Delights”
The Delight series was initially created over the October long weekend, while in COVID-19 lockdown, sipping on a gin cocktail, discovering my love for the new medium of acrylic inks. My method is intuitive, incorporates stenciling and mixed media. This is my way of using contrasting details and multiple layers that add texture, which is distinctive to my artwork. In Emerald Delights I had a focus of green & emerald hues with turquoise and yellow highlights to soothe the soul and bring joy to others.
“Emerald Delights”
“Emergent Symphony”
Emergent Symphony
Exhibition Winner for Excellence Art Achievement in the International Abstract Art Exhibition August 2024 with Artist Space Gallery in California USA for “Emergent Symphony”
"Emergent Symphony" is an abstract exploration of vibrant upheaval and harmonious convergence. Utilising a bold palette of greens and whites with accents of black and splashes of pencil and ink, this mixed media creation captures the essence of dynamic forces at play. The artwork mirrors the spontaneous yet orchestrated nature of life's unpredictable events, evoking the beauty that arises from chaos and the patterns found within the apparent randomness, inviting viewers to find their own meanings in the explosive interplay of colour and texture.
Friendship Thrice - Triptych
Finalist Award in the “Shades of Green” 2023 International Juried Visual Arts Exhibition with Camelback Gallery in Scottsdale, Arizona, USA for “Friendship Thrice - Triptych”
Another commissioned artwork, this triptych symbolises the friendship of the recipient, my husband and I. The artwork epitomises my vision of a joyful and balanced lifestyle. Intuitively painting with brush strokes, multiple layers, textures and mixed media that purely feels right.
“Friendship Thrice” - Triptych
“Celestial Horizons of Hope”
Celestial Horizons of Hope
Exhibition Winner for Excellence Art Achievement in the International Abstract Art Exhibition August 2024 with Artist Space Gallery in California USA for “Celestial Horizons of Hope”
“Celestial Horizons of Hope” is a reflective and evocative piece, part of my ongoing "Celestial" series. This artwork has been especially created to honour the Mark Hughes Foundation's 2024 Magic Ball on their 10-year anniversary.
The textures within the painting evoke a sense of depth and movement, reminiscent of the vast and ever-changing celestial skies. The swirling patterns and bold strokes symbolise the turbulence and beauty of our emotions as we navigate through life's challenges and triumphs. The vision behind Celestial Horizons of Hope is one of optimism and perseverance. It embodies the spirit of hope, reflecting my heartfelt wish for advancements in treatments and, ultimately, a cure for brain cancer. This work is deeply personal and is dedicated to the memory of my father, whose battle with brain cancer nearly a decade ago inspired this journey of artistic expression.
By donating this piece to the Mark Hughes Foundation, I aim to contribute to the ongoing fight against brain cancer, fostering hope and healing through both art and science.