Michelle Huizinga, based in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, is a multimedia sculptor whose work captures the earthly charm of nature. Her primary inspiration can be described as ‘the beauty of decay’— amber-toned rust, flaking paint textures, and organic patterns left behind by time.
At the root of Michelle’s art is her love of exploring outdoors and a deep connection to her Dutch heritage. Her creativity is often sparked by discovering a place’s hidden corners or forgotten structures, and we simply adore how clearly these concepts shine through her pieces.
Primarily working with clay, Michelle moulds her discoveries into forms that are a perfect blend of ‘nature and nurture’. Fascinated by combining textiles with ceramics, she crafts clay vessels that are beautifully distinctive in style—each piece carries earthy tones, rich textures, and occasionally, a gorgeous pop of colour.
Michelle’s sculptures are a true celebration of nature’s beauty with their rustic, tactile forms adorned with carefully considered doses of colour. So intuitive is Michelle’s practice, she never fully knows what will emerge from the clay, uniquely positioning her as an artist that can join her audience’s delight in novelty. Here at Turua Gallery, with a selection of her pieces on display, we’re thrilled to share in that wonder!
