Love Where You Are: An exhibition in Melton by Tess Angala

A new exhibition at the Melton Civic Centre titled “Love Where You Are” is taking art enthusiasts on a journey that captures the essence of daily life, the charm of neighbourhood nuances, and the importance of community support. Featuring Tess Angala’s striking paper art and collage, this exhibit underscores the importance of finding home and celebrating the everyday.

After the opening night on 30 August 2023, Tess Angala expressed her gratitude on Facebook, posting, “So stoked. Thank you to those who viewed the exhibit last night. Am so grateful for the support. The exhibition is still on-going until 23 February 2024. Lots of time to see it.”

Tess, known for her skills as an illustrator, stationary designer, baker, writer, engineer, and paper crafter, brings to life quirky illustrations that interweave themes of inclusivity and abstract portraiture. These elements resonate deeply with the Melton community’s diverse nature, reflecting its unique personalities and stories.

“This exhibition showcases Melton, how people celebrate being in the moment, appreciating the present and being grateful for the space under our feet,” said Angala. Intriguingly, her creative journey began in the 2000s in Manila, Philippines. Today, she crafts her masterpieces in her Caroline Springs home studio, where she runs her gifts and homewares business, ‘What Tess Makes‘.

Mayor of Melton, Cr Lara Carli, expressed her admiration for the exhibition, noting, “Tess’s work is perfect for our Civic Centre, celebrating our people and places and the materiality of our city and planet.” She further elaborated on the significance of the exhibit in promoting inclusivity in Melton, emphasizing community and creativity.

The exhibit is also a part of the Melton City Council’s Groundwork program. This initiative nourishes the creative pursuits of artists in the City of Melton, providing them with mentorship, curatorial advice, marketing and promotion support, and premium exhibition spaces.

Groundwork ensures the city’s emerging artists share their talents with broader audiences. “Groundwork supports our city’s most exciting emerging artists to grow and thrive – and brings contemporary arts practice to a broader audience,” Mayor Carli added.

Eco-consciousness is also central to Angala’s work. “I am fascinated with colours, patterns, and designs on paper and fabric. Most of the materials used here are scraps that I repurposed into artwork. I think it is important to be conscious about the environment in every little way possible,” she remarked.

For those eager to experience Angala’s mesmerizing artwork, “Love Where You Are” will grace the Melton Civic Centre until 23 February 2024. More details about the exhibition are available on the official website melton.vic.gov.au/LoveWhereYouAre.