Unlikely inspiration found by the roadside | Open Studios 2024

When you arrive at Cicada Creek Studio, you might feel like you’ve stumbled upon a luxurious meditation retreat among lush, sprawling grounds.

This picturesque property is home to Pascale Abbott’s creative space.

The studio overlooks a beautiful garden, a work of art in itself-a living oasis of tranquillity.

Pascale is an artist who feels her artistic immersion is “like meditation itself” and one that has endless possibilities for expression.

“I have so many mediums to express myself in,” the passionate artist explained.

“I don’t limit myself with a choice or preference.”

“I tune in and feel what I need to do to find my path as an artist… at that moment. I let each day guide my inspiration, and I love exploring that,” she said.

Her art is a uniquely beautiful, spontaneous journey.

One of immense colour and texture, finding inspiration in usual circumstances.

Such as on the side of the road.

“I’ve collected discarded hubcaps off the side of the roads for years. I’ve got all the brands!” Pascale said.

“I wait a few days to see if anyone collects them, then if not… I swoop in!”

One’s trash is another’s treasure, and in Pascale’s case, these discarded car parts have become a treasured avenue for showcasing her talents for exploring new artistic pathways.

My collection became so big that I had to find something to do with them.” She expressed.

Inspired by the circular shape, her hubcap collection blossomed into a stunning bouquet for her son’s wedding. She transformed the discarded “rubbish” into striking flowers (even welding their long stems herself).

“My guests were so impressed and told me, “You need to keep doing this!”. She said.

Now, her hubcap designs are cherished by collectors and can be found sprouting up around the State.

As you enter the property, you’ll discover her vibrant “flower” hubcap-inspired creations peeping about the bushes, which create a beautiful contrast with the deep green tones of the trees.

The happy sunflowers and stunning Indigenous designs make a bright statement of ingenuity.

As you move into her studio, Pascale’s diversity and talent continue to shine.

Her passion as a painter finds its way onto the canvas in strokes of incredible colour, combining hidden textures to create contrast and depth.

Ribbons, rope, lace and velvet weave a collage-type effect, drawing you into layered scenes of beauty.

“I had an old box of lace from my dear grandmother, and the pieces found their way into my art.” She explained.

“And now her legacy has become part of my work, which is very special.”

Pascale’s connection to Open Studios is also very special.

She has been a part of the journey since its inception, and it’s been an integral part of her story as an artist.

The passionate painter, who has been painting for over 20 years, experienced a medical trauma at the end of a creative hiatus to raise her children.

Seeking spiritual healing during this time, some pivotal words were offered to her-it was time to explore new pathways in her life to unblock her creativity.

“The next day, I spoke with Jenny Sanderson, one of the founders of Open Studios, who asked if I was still painting as they needed people for the event,” Pascale explained.

“I took it as a sign and began painting again in an entirely new way.” She added.

“I’ve been with Open Studios from the very beginning. It’s my 11th year, and I absolutely love it!”

Like many artists collaborating with Open Studios, Pascale loves the connection it offers for artists and visitors.

“The most special thing about this event is the people. They’re wonderful, and it’s beautiful to share your space with them,” she said.

“I love that many return each year to say hello and are excited to see my latest work.”

Open Studios not only helps artists build their presence but also offers a unique opportunity for people to see these incredibly talented creatives in their natural environments and gain a deeper connection with them as a person.

When you visit Cicada Creek Studios, Pascale’s spritely personality leaps from the canvas and hollers from the vibrantly painted hubcaps.

Each piece truly reflects someone who loves life and sees it in a million shades of colour.

And as you leave her property and you catch sight of her “flower” hubcaps jumping for joy, you can’t help but smile.

For more information, visit: mrropenstudios.com.au