Meli Axford

Meli Axford is a Brisbane-born artist whose evocative oil paintings reimagine the Australian landscape through the lens of family and gender dynamics. Now based in the serene hinterland of northern New South Wales, her work is deeply personal, reflecting the everyday beauty and strength of her daughters, Lily and Mia.

Her acclaimed Pool Series explores themes of resilience and empowerment, confronting the persistent gender biases that shape society. Through vibrant, heartfelt scenes, Meli challenges the undervaluation of daughters, offering a powerful counter-narrative that celebrates their brilliance.

Meli’s work has been exhibited in New York and across Australia, earning recognition as a finalist in the Wollumbin Art Award (2024, 2022), Sunshine Coast Art Prize (2022), and Byron Art Prize (2020–2022).