Maia Jelavic

@maiapaints

Maia Jelavic is a multidisciplinary artist based in Sydney/Gadigal. For over a decade, she has been a prominent figure in the Sydney indie-music scene, known for her work as a songwriter, performer and instrumentalist. While music remains a core part of her creative expression, the pandemic lockdown of 2021 ignited her passion for painting, textiles, and clay.
Maia’s artistic practice delves into the subconscious, examining the intersections of human experience, preconceived ideas, automatism, and chance. Primarily working with oil on board and canvas, her artworks depict otherworldly landscapes, figures, and creatures, featuring recurring motifs that evolve through layered textures and abstract forms. She often discovers that the imagery and symbols that emerge intuitively resonate with archetypal themes from history, reflecting universal emotions and experiences. This connection between her work and historical patterns captivates her, as she uncovers parallels with artistic expressions throughout time.
Her creative process is fluid and intuitive, allowing her work to unfold organically, much like her approach to music. Both her musical compositions and visual art serve as avenues for exploring the shared depths of human emotion and perception. Through these mediums, Maia seeks to create reflective spaces where new ideas and experiences emerge through the act of creation.

View the work: Building 24 Level 2, First Floor Gallery