Michelle’s connection to beach plastic began in childhood, collecting what she called “Mermaid Tears” along the shores of Plettenberg Bay. Only later did she discover that they were raw plastic pellets known as “nurdles”. Now based in Kommetjie, Cape Town, she has become deeply aware of the volume of plastic washing onto local beaches and its impact on the marine environment.

Since beginning her art practice in 2020, Michelle has collected discarded ocean plastic in order to give the ocean a voice through intricate fine art compositions. Guided by the materials themselves, she allows each piece to evolve organically.

Her work explores the tension between beauty and environmental consequence, inviting reflection on our relationship with waste and the natural world. Through her art, Michelle hopes to inspire greater awareness and conscious change. As she says, “If I don’t show you, you will not see.”

Michelle has had two solo exhibitions and is represented by three Cape Town galleries. She considers herself honoured to share her work with both local and international collectors.

mishvania | @mishvania_art