ABOUT

Matthew "Melnunnie" Brettschneider of Melnunnie Art is a proud Wiradjuri and Ngiyampaa artist based in Maroubra, New South Wales.
He is originally from Hillston in Western, New South Wales. Hillston is a special place that borders both Wradjuri and Ngiyampaa Country of which Matthew has ties to both people and informs his practice. 

The Wiradjuri word "Melnunnie" means "red". This word holds particular importance to Matthew. It's a word that brings focus to Matthew’s historical connection to the river red gums of his upbringing, and the red dirt country of Hillston. "Melnunnie" is also Matthew's nickname that was endearingly adopted to mirror the physical feature of his natural hair. 

Matthew is interested in the practise of Aboriginal culture and storytelling through Aboriginal art. The key themes of his practice are centred on Country, home and belonging. His approach to artmaking intentionally challenges the audience’s impulsive tendencies to view Aboriginal art solely in its abstract form. Beneath these forms are stories that exist through each mark and stroke threading narratives of people and place.

In the Black and White (Monochrome) (2022) collection, Matthew conveys a powerful statement on monochromatic themes where the evocative expressions of his stylised linework can be represented within minimalistic parameters. The works of this collection can be described as an intimate reflection of Matthew's lived experiences observing the deep philosophy enshrined in the topographic surrounds of Country. The body of work Matthew completed for the Summer Show (2023) at Goodspace Gallery delivers a range of curated colour palette allowing the introduction of the ethereal essence and sanctity evident in his chosen subjects. 

The contrast between the aesthetics of these collections demonstrates Matthew’s diverse conceptual range as an artist and storyteller. Matthew’s explorative visual language compels the viewer to contemplate beyond the line, beyond the form, beyond the colours thereby revealing the stories that signify his work and the profound beauty in their grounded meaning. 

Artist Statement written by Ria Manguray

Image Credit: Joshua Reading