The Magic Wand

"The Magic Wand" is a striking, minimalist homage to the humble paintbrush—an object that serves as the bridge between creativity and canvas. Set against a deep, dark background, the brush stands solitary yet powerful, its worn bristles and patina-covered ferrule telling a story of countless strokes, colours, and artistic journeys.

Michelle Nixon’s meticulous rendering of texture and tone imbues the painting with a quiet reverence, elevating the everyday tool into a symbol of artistic devotion. The contrast between the luminous wooden handle and the shadowy void surrounding it invites reflection on the act of creation itself—where ideas emerge from darkness and take form through the artist’s hand.

This piece speaks to painters and creatives alike, celebrating the beauty found in simplicity and the tools that bring visions to life.

Acrylic and Mixed Media on canvas with a protective satin varnish. Wide edge, acid-free, 340gsm cotton duck canvas, painted black on the side, wired and ready to hang. Please contact me if you would like the edges of the painting to be finished in a different colour.

Please note any in situ images of this artwork are for marketing purposes and have been digitally embedded. All effort has been made to give a true impression, however they may not be to exact scale. Please check the dimensions before purchasing.

Select 'Add A Custom Frame' if external framing desired (Artist recommendation: Natural oak frame).

All care is taken when sending your new painting.

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Cementing her reputation as an award-winning contemporary abstract artist, Michelle Nixon is passionate about art, typically beginning her pieces in acrylic, working across multiple layers, and often branching into inks and mixed media. She says:

“The freedom and measured chaos different mediums offer make for a unique, limitless and satisfying session. Every piece can run off on a tangent and is only limited by your imagination… some may even uncover a secret message or two.”

Michelle nurtures her passion by frequenting local galleries across the Mornington Peninsula and bringing creations to life in her home studio in Mount Eliza, Victoria. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally in both solo and group art shows, exhibitions, private collections and galleries. She is a Life Member at Oak Hill Gallery and is certified, registered, and recorded in the National Registry of Australian Art and Artists.

Michelle also holds a Diploma in Interior Design and a Certificate in Graphic Design.

Known for her wicked sense of humour, Michelle loves to make people laugh and feel at ease, whether at work, enjoying the company of friends, or collaborating with artists across Australia.

Alongside her artistic pursuits, Michelle manages a Retirement Village by day and shares her life with husband Peter, her two beloved Golden Retrievers Georgia and Lucy and her cat Maisey. She believes that:

“Life is all about balance and satisfaction. Celebrate the small stuff. You have to be passionate and love what you do.”