Sunny Afternoon | Mornington Beach Huts

I was inspired by the laid-back charm of these beach huts. I painted these little huts en plein air, right there in the moment. This row of beach huts lined up like a row of cheerful, colourful cottages, was just waiting to brighten my day. Each one has its own unique, weathered charm, like a group of old friends sharing stories of the sea.

I wanted this painting to be a friendly reminder to slow down, savour the beauty of the coast, and let the beach's laid-back vibe wash over you. It's like a warm, friendly greeting from the beach, saying, "Come and join the fun!".

- Size: 23 x 28 x 3.5 cm
- Original oil painting on quality canvas board.
- Framed in Australian Oak and ready to hang.

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More work coming soon! I’m Michelle McKinnon, a South Gippsland based artist working primarily with oil paint, creating native flora still life paintings and limited edition art prints.

My practice centers on still life paintings of Australian native flora. I’m drawn to their character and quiet beauty, as well as their strong structural, almost architectural qualities. A single stem or carefully arranged grouping can hold just as much presence as a wider landscape.

I grow many native plants in my own garden, not only for their beauty but as food and shelter for local birds and insects. Spending time observing these plants — how they grow, move, and are structured — is an important part of my process. I often create my compositions from imagination and memory, using what I’ve studied and observed to sketch and develop each painting in the studio.