MIM O'GRADY

Mim O’Grady’s practice sits between two distinct yet connected bodies of work: intimate charcoal portraits of local Indigenous Elders, and expansive abstract aerial landscapes that reflect a deep connection to Country.

Her charcoal portraits demonstrate a quiet confidence in mark-making. Working in tonal depth rather than colour, Mim captures presence through restraint - allowing light, shadow and detail to emerge gradually. These works go beyond likeness, holding a sense of the person and their place within community.

Alongside this, her abstract landscapes draw on aerial perspectives of the Australian terrain. Layered pigments, mineral tones and fluid movement suggest river systems, sediment shifts and land formations. Her palette - grounded in ochres, muted blues and natural neutrals - reflects an intuitive understanding of colour relationships, creating works that feel both composed and expansive.

Deep structural lines move through the surface, holding the composition together while softer fields of colour settle around them. The result is balanced and deliberate - complex without feeling overwhelming.
Conceptually, Mim’s work is informed by research into Indigenous land management and the historical narrative of Terra Nullius. Her landscapes act as quiet reflections on land, memory and stewardship, acknowledging the depth and sophistication of First Nations knowledge systems.
As a Stable Artist at Black Fig Gallery, Mim represents a practice that is technically refined, thoughtfully developed and deeply grounded in place.

Her work is available to view in the gallery. If not currently on display, pieces may be part of our rotating collection - please ask and we’ll gladly bring them out for you.