Mernda resident Michael Mason is using his artistic gift to draw and paint historic buildings around the area. He spoke to Michaela Meade about what got him interested in art, and why he has chosen buildings as his focus.
What is your connection to Mernda and Northern Suburbs?
My wife and I have lived here in Mernda for over 13 years now and very much enjoy the semi-country location and it’s enjoyable surroundings. When we first arrived in 2008 we opened a small art gallery on the corner of Bridge Inn & Yan Yean Roads in Doreen, next to The Corner Store to feature some of my art works, however after six months it proved to be an unsuccessful venture.
When did you learn to paint and why?
I studied art and design at an Architectural College in London in the 60’s and qualified as an interior designer in 1965. I emigrated to Australia in 1968 and practised as a commercial interior designer in Melbourne for over 20 years. In my spare time I developed the skill of illustrative art over a number of years and my interest in drawing historic buildings increased.
Why did you start painting historic buildings?
I’ve always had an interest in historic buildings from my years studying and working in London amongst some of the most wonderfully exciting architectural structures in the world. When I came to Australia, I did some research into the Mechanics Institutes that can be found in most towns and cities in Victoria and started drawing them. When I moved to Mernda, I was surprised by the number of homesteads and cottages built in bluestone, brick and timber that were to be found within the Whittlesea area and I started to paint them. Over the years I have got to know many local residents, who share my interest in local history, some of whom are in the Whittlesea Historical Society, and who have been very helpful in assisting me in discovering the locations of many of these properties.
How do you present your work to the local community?
Every year I select the best of my work and put them into a calendar, which I sell on ‘Lost Mernda’ and ‘Whittlestory’ Facebook pages and through word of mouth. My 2022 calendar is available now. I also sell my individual paintings by the same method, and I also undertake commissions to paint private properties.
What is your favourite café?
My wife and I spread our patronage around the many excellent cafes in the area, but one of our favourites is Turners Bakehouse Eatery in Schotters Road, Mernda, a historic residence in its own right and one that I featured on my 2020 calendar.
