Portrait of woman with flower - "I am"

Artist Statement:
My artwork, I am, 2023 is inspired by my personal journey of becoming an Australian citizen and the complexity of my identity. Having lived in five different countries, I found it challenging to always assimilate to my surroundings and find a sense of belonging. Through this piece, I explore the idea that identity is not solely defined on physical appearance, but also an emotional connection to a place and its culture.

The woman in the drawing holds a golden wattle leaf and flowers, the national flower of Australia. Her back is turned towards the viewer, symbolising the vulnerability and rawness that comes with calling a new country home. She asks us to consider our perceptions of identity beyond visual stereotypes and celebrate the different ways in which we can define our sense of belonging.

This artwork was carefully drawn with high quality pencils on the prestigious Magnani 1404 cold pressed fine art paper.

Professionally framed by Wide Bay Art Gallery; with d hook and string attached ready to hang on your wall.

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Shanay Manitzky is an Australian figurative artist whose practice draws inspiration from personal experiences, reminiscent of an intimate “Dear diary”. Her recent works explore the relationship between people and objects, navigating the boundary between the real and surreal.

Manitzky completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Whitecliffe College of Fine Arts & Design, Auckland, NZ in 2013 and a Graduate Diploma of Teaching at University of Auckland in 2014.
She currently teaches Visual Arts & Dance at Aldridge SHS, Maryborough as well as running artist workshops for the Fraser Coast Regional Council.

Manitzky has exhibited her work at numerous galleries including Aspire Gallery, Brisbane, Gatakers Art Space, Maryborough, Art Lovers Australia, Melbourne and Pearce Gallery, NZ.

Manitzky recently won the drawing section in the Aspects Art Show, Goondiwindi (2023), a finalist in the Omnia Art Prize, Melbourne (2024) and the Bluethumb Art Prize (2023, 2022).

Manitzky has been commissioned by the Fraser Coast Regional Council to produce permanent artworks for the Maryborough, QLD.

Shanay Manitzky is represented by Aspire Gallery, Brisbane.