Milne, a self-taught artist, paints in acrylic on wood panel or on covers of antique books. She draws from an array of influences, such as music, Asian culture, and her life experiences, especially those from her childhood in Anaheim, California. “As far back as I remember I’ve felt a creative pull,” says Milne. “I remember certain images from when I was wee, being obsessed with Halloween decorations, big colored bulb lights on the Christmas tree, any coloring book with thick lines, Popeye and Bugs Bunny!”
Milne’s paintings often feature sugary treats, such as smiling ice cream cones, melting popsicles and peppermints. Milne explains, “Growing up I was a candy FIEND! I felt that including those images in my work added a little relatable nostalgia.” Though there is playfulness in her work, there also seems to be a solemn vibe surrounding the central characters, and a bite to the overall compositions. Regarding this darkness, Milne says, “I’ve had a pretty wonderful life, but there are recurring sad undertones and overwhelming emotional struggles that we all deal with along the way. I tap into that in my work in hopes of relating to my viewers.” At the core of her paintings is an expression of universal emotions—loss, loneliness, and love. Her personal tenderness is represented here as well, through the reoccurring image of a strawberry, which Milne describes as, “a symbol for my heart. Whether it’s bleeding, sad or being cradled.”
In addition to her paintings, which have been exhibited throughout California since 2004, Milne has made irresistible plush toys, collaborated with Hurley and published her first book “So Good For Little Bunnies.” She is currently preparing for her next solo show at the Corey Helford Gallery in Culver City. “It’s gonna be a big ‘un!” she says. –By Camille Lowry / Hurley Art
