Inspired by natural beauty

A gay Sydney artist could soon be hung at the MGM Grand Macau Casino.
Steven Vella, who lives in Zetland with his partner of five years, is a semi-abstract artist who paints using a unique process of shellac, pigment, dyes and metal leaf on board.
“I grew up on a sugar farm in North Queensland and have been artistic ever since primary school,” Vella said.
“I would neglect my homework to draw and make little outfits with fabric scraps for my sister’s Barbies and create ruined cities out of rocks I found in the cane fields.”
Vella said his unique works of art were inspired by “the beauty and diversity of natural phenomena”.
“My last four exhibitions were inspired by the atmosphere, skies and weather formations,” he said.
“In this exhibition, I have moved beyond, into the vastness of unknown space.
“My work is quite unique in that I’m not using the usual oil or acrylic as a medium. Shellac gives some amazing effects, especially when used on silver or gold leaf. The results can be very mesmerizing, with an almost iridescent effect. The depth and reflective quality achieved is remarkable.”
Vella’s exhibition is on until 22 September at NG Art Gallery, 3 Little Queen St, Chippendale. Details: www.ngart.com.au