Background Noise

Michelle's current work explores the themes of memory, landscape, and militarisation, drawing inspiration from her childhood in East Anglia, near a US military airbase in Suffolk. Her paintings delve into the complex relationship between rural life and the presence of military power, with a particular focus on nuclear weapons and fighter jets that shaped her upbringing.

The new series of work combines figurative elements with her earlier abstract landscapes, reflecting her personal journey and evolving perspective. The paintings are inspired by memories of growing up during the Cold War and are informed by the recent news of the return of US nuclear weapons to the same airbase. This prompted Michelle to create art that reflects both her childhood naivety and her current anti-war stance.

In her work, Michelle uses child-like visual language to convey the innocent yet unsettling experience of growing up near a military base. Motifs such as planes, fences, and playgrounds feature prominently, symbolising her memories of playing near the base, while vibrant colours bridge the gap between abstract landscapes and a more figurative narrative.

This body of work challenges the unacknowledged tension between peaceful village life and the ever-present military machine. Through her unique approach to painting, Michelle invites viewers to reflect on the impact of US militarisation on both the landscape and society.