Sumptuous Contentment - A Series of Large Abstract Paintings Exploring Positive Mood States

The phrase ‘sumptuous contentment’ was one Michelle’s psychotherapist used to describe what she was missing in her ‘rushing onwards’ to the next project, rather than basking in the warm glow of completion. Michelle often reflects on her observation and now intentionally makes time to be ‘in the moment’ with the good stuff that happens at the end of an event, whether it be an art project, a holiday or a friendly chat. Sumptuous contentment is a state of mind. It has an emotional component: something of the joy of accomplishment, perhaps even love.

This series of paintings were all made when the weather was hot. The vibrant colours display joy, passion and sizzling energy. Velutto (Italian for ‘velvet’) emanates from a scorchingly hot time in southern Italy. Michelle was enchanted by the architecture, food and language of this place. Everything felt harmonised. She made Velutto as a response to the stained glass windows in the dark churches of Lecce, which struck a rather divine balance between soulfulness and sensuality.

Sweet Sweet Love is named after a lyric by the band Gorky’s Zygotic Munci, whom Michelle listened to continually whilst making this painting. It is overpainted on another Italian-inspired piece that she couldn’t make work. You can see the marks and textures, which add to the developmental history of the piece. The turquoise rectangle is symbolic of the yoga mat that is always ready for practice. She has had the same yoga mat since 1996. It has absorbed lots of emotions, and has served her very well. This painting is a homage to that mat - filled with sweet love and gratitude!

Summer Lovin’ is a lyric from the film Grease, which had a strong impact on Michelle as a child. It reminds her of warm, summer fun. She made this painting during a heatwave, after a fabulous camping trip. It was itself a response to the painting Sweet Sweet Love, which was displayed in the artist’s home at the time. Summer Lovin’ has a stronger energy - the marks of the painting feel more yang.