Michelle Beattie

Artist statement

Michelle Beattie (MISHVANIA) – Artist Statement Michelle’s relationship with beach plastic began in childhood, collecting what she called “Mermaid Tears” along the shores of Plettenberg Bay. Years later, she discovered these were raw, unmanufactured plastics known as nurdles. Now based in Kommetjie, Cape Town, she has become increasingly aware of the volume of plastic washing up on local beaches and its fundamental impact on the environment. Michelle’s art practice began in late 2020. She collects beach plastic from her local beaches to give the ocean a “voice” through her art. Each piece develops organically, allowing the materials to shape her compositions. Her work explores the tension between beauty and environmental impact, transforming discarded plastic into intricate fine art that invites reflection on our relationship with the natural world. Ocean plastic is a pressing ecological crisis, threatening marine life and the health of our oceans. Through her work, Michelle hopes to raise awareness and gently challenge viewers to make more conscious choices in their daily lives. As she says: “If I don’t show you, you will not see.” Having presented two solo exhibitions and being represented by three galleries in Cape Town, Michelle is humbled by the opportunity to share her work with both local and international audiences, and a global client base, while continuing to transform discarded plastic into meaningful, thought-provoking art.