McCarthy Gallery is excited to continue our series of our gallery artist, curated exhibitions—celebrating Pacific contemporary art—As well as an opportunity to collaborate closely with our patrons, partners and collectors.

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Visual artist Rachel Pedrana is Australian born, of Sri Lankan and Irish heritage, creating mixed media art from her studio workshop on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland Australia.

Rachel's creative mission is to challenge perception surrounding recycled materials being inferior or lacking value by elevating recycled textile fibers, transforming discarded materials into opulent and aesthetically pleasing works of art. Demonstrating that sustainability and artistic excellence can coexist by challenging the narrative of waste within the fast fashion industry.

Rachel’s designs are a composition of symbolic geometric shapes, lines, and patterns. Merging these elements with recycled textile fibers weaves a profound, emotive, storytelling experience. Her thoughtful approach not only elevates the aesthetic but also serves as a visual language, inviting viewers to interpret and engage with the artwork on a deeper level.

Recycled textile fibers, sustainably sourced timbers, eco-friendly-vegan acrylics, inks, and aerosols are Rachel’s preferred mediums. Each artwork serves as both a canvas for her creativity and a deliberate choice to contribute positively to the planet, echoing an environmentally aware philosophy.

Rachel's creative journey began in a photographic darkroom with its captivating magic of processing black and white negatives during Secondary College. After participating in the Top Cats exhibition at the NGV (National Gallery of Victoria), and acquiring a legion of photographic awards, she secured a coveted scholarship at the PIC (Photographic Imaging College) in Hawthorn, Victoria, completing a certificate in Studio Arts & Photography in 1997.

With an extensive career in studio photography and the industry growing to embrace digital technology within her practice, Rachel chose to move towards more traditional forms of artistic expression. As her journey advanced, she fused her worlds of photography, painting, textiles, and design.

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Rachel regularly showcases her artwork in galleries and art fairs, receiving commissions to create bespoke pieces for private collectors, commercial interior design projects, and installations.

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McCarthy Gallery has represented Rachel Pedrana since 2024.