TSUBAKI
$375
Tsubaki (椿), the Japanese word for camellia, depicts a woman in a traditional Japanese design surrounded by camellias. The red camellia embodies courage and strength due to its ability to survive in the harshest conditions. Representing self-reflection and inner strength, the red camellia emphasises the figure’s inner beauty and resilience.
Rather than presenting a perfect symbol of beauty, the figure proudly presents her flushed sun-kissed skin. Each freckle is part of her, something to embrace rather than hide. Her gaze is powerful and direct to the viewer, confident and magnetic. The split complimentary colour palette allows for more visual harmony in the piece, highlighting her skin tone and light-coloured hair.
Inspired by the Art Nouveau movement, a decorative asymmetrical border made from camellias frames the face. Her black hair simultaneously cuts through the composition, creating directional lines that maintain a consistent flow. The fusion of Japanese aesthetics and Art Nouveau creates a unique perspective on both styles.
Digital artwork (procreate)
59.4 x 42cm
Artist Statement: Skye Lavelle is a 23-year-old Chinese-Timorese Australian digital artist born and raised in Darwin. Skye often creates anime-inspired artworks but always enjoys experimenting with new styles and mediums. She recently graduated with her Bachelor of Arts Honours in 2023, studying queer abstractions of the body through photography, ink, and collage.
As the artist behind the mascot and logo for TROPiCON, as well as the lead artist and community manager for Diets & Deities, a locally made videogame, Skye is closely involved in the local videogame and youth art community in the NT.
She is currently teaching digital art courses at The Array, a local tech hub. As a creative, Skye identifies how important it is to empower the local community in both digital and creative spaces. She aims to continue to support these spaces as a fellow emerging creative.
Contact Tactile Arts on 08 8981 6616 or admin@tactilearts.org.au to purchase.
