Meet Mikaela Stafford, a self-taught, Sydney-based 3D motion graphics artist whose work delves into hypothetical futures, exploring the intricate dynamics between humans, technology, and nature. Now, she’s taking over The Galeries as our newest Artist in Residence, with her mesmerising pieces, showcased on Ground Floor and Level 1. Celebrating the work of local artists, The Galeries’ Artist in Residence program sees homegrown talent put on display in the buzzy heart of the CBD via installations in The Galeries, be it on the windows, hanging from the ceilings or on decals around the centre. 

Before diving into Mikaela’s universe through her art, we sat down with the artist to find out a little bit more about why Bjork is her ultimate muse and creative freedom is her most cherished gift.  

I got into art…from a young age, I was always passionate about it. I studied painting at SCA (The University of Sydney) and transitioned to installation art and stage design. During the lockdowns, I learned 3D animation to model stages, which evolved into creating visual art projects like nightclub posters. 

I’d describe my art as… vibrant, abstract, and biomorphic, focusing on world-building and sculptural forms. I often draw from subaquatic environments to create bio-digital worlds where technology and nature blend seamlessly. Despite the deep themes, my work maintains a playful side through bright colours, reflective surfaces, and curvy shapes. 

I’m really inspired by… subaquatic environments. I view the deep ocean as a metaphor for the unknown and try to capture that sense of wonder in my work. I’m also intrigued by the idea of how technology and nature might harmoniously coexist in future societies. 

When I’m stuck, I turn to…Bjork! 

My piece in the Galeries draws on… nostalgia. Since the exhibition is in spring and I’m from Sydney, I wanted to evoke the feeling of jasmine and gardenias in September. I aimed to visually represent the scent and sensation of these flowers using fluid, curvy forms. 

The best part of creating a piece for the Galeries was the creative freedom they provided. It allowed me to fully explore my vision and dive into sensory crossovers and memory in a new way, which has been particularly stimulating since I now live far from Sydney. 

I hope my work always…sparks optimism and curiosity about the future. I aim to offer a fresh visual perspective that encourages people to think differently about their surroundings and themselves, even if just for a moment. 

In the future, I hope to…expand my public art practice with video installations and sculptures, both in Australia and internationally. I’m also looking forward to gallery shows and ongoing collaborative projects, with more details to come soon! 

Visit Mikaela's latest public artwork now in centre at The Galeries.