INNER strength, triumph and non-conforming beauty are the key themes of South Perth artist Ryan Michael’s first solo show.
In 2015, Michael started work on his exhibition, Fight like a Girl, after changing careers from an investment banker to artist and primary school teacher.
Having grown up in a household with only his mother and elder sister, Michael said his works reflected on the influence strong women had on his childhood.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW“It was normal for me to imagine women as being leaders who are strong and can achieve anything,” he said.
“It was only when I got older and went off to university and then into the workforce where, I realized that my home was an exception and not the norm.
“I can only imagine the challenges my mother and sister faced while I was growing up; fighting the presence of sexism and cultural stereotypes especially with us being born in India and moving to Australia, while still showing grace and strength.”
Fight like a Girl showcases vibrant portraits that can be experienced on a visual and textural level, with beading, gold leaf and native materials layered in the works.
The exhibition is showing from December 11 to December 16 at the YMCA HQ Gallery, 60a Frame Court, Leederville.
MORE: Perth coffee drinkers rejoice: your daily caffeine fix could be making you healthier
MORE: City of Vincent permits dogs inside council administration building
MORE: Burswood man sets sights on conquering highest summit on each continent
MORE: Scarborough’s Sunset Markets tipped to bring people back to the beach this summer