Big Life Conversation

On the show we have two wonderful guests:

Molly Hadfield Social Justice Oration artist Sheena Mathieson. Sheena Mathieson is a Northern suburbs visual artist and grassroots community arts facilitator, whose varied and eclectic practice Woman-made, is underpinned by a respect for human uniqueness and the environment. Sheena uses art as a tool for connection and empowerment. She facilitates the long running, truly inclusive Art for All Abilities programs at Span Community House in Thornbury, works with artists living with disabilities and runs her own creative workshops and vibrant community-based art projects.

As an arts facilitator Sheena uses creative multifaceted activities to bring people together and brings happiness to all - young and old, disabled and abled, women and men. She believes that we are all creative individuals with different skills, strengths and vulnerabilities, all capable of making beautiful and meaningful art given the right opportunities. ‘We are all artists (even if we didn’t think we were one) who play a vital role in contributing to innovation, local identity and wellbeing in our community.’ In short, she believes everyone deserves the right to their expressive place in the limelight.

Sheena is interested in the notions of sustainability and place; making evocative art from recycled, donated, uncovered and found materials, combined with quality media. Her particular interest is in experimental printmaking, in combination with other media such as collage and paint.

Sheena is colourful, sassy and sensitive, and she enjoys the unexpected – challenging the medium, and producing works which are joyous, spirited and colourful, in every way. Her story is one which inspires, and shows an awareness, and celebration, of who and what is around her.

Artist George Petrou OAM is a highly accomplished graphic designer and renowned portrait artist. In 2010, following a cancer diagnosis, George turned to portrait painting with a renewed sense of purpose. Determined that if he were to overcome his illness, he would devote more time to honouring the extraordinary Australian men and women who have made profound sacrifices and contributed significantly to humanitarian efforts both nationally and internationally.

With a deep passion for Australian history, George found that painting became his personal form of ‘chemo’ therapy—an artistic endeavour that allowed him to channel his resilience and appreciation for the nation’s rich heritage.

George is proud to introduce his latest art project, The Art of Humanity, following the success of his previous book, The Art of Sacrifice.

The Art of Humanity explores the essence of compassion, generosity, and the unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Through compelling portraits and narratives, the project seeks to inspire and deeply resonate with its audience.

In recognition of his contributions, George was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in June 2020 for his ‘Services to the Visual Arts and to Veterans.’ He also serves as a patron for TPI Victoria Inc. His esteemed portraits are displayed in prestigious institutions worldwide, including museums in France, the United Kingdom, Greece, and Dubai, as well as Government House in Canberra and various military institutions across Australia.

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