In 1997, Mirra Hainsworth was the only non-Chinese artist invited to participate in the Exhibition of 100 Women Artists held in Shenzen in China and Hong Kong.
We regret to inform you that Mirra Hainsworth had passed away.
This website is maintained in her loving memory, by her son and daughter.
Mirra Hainsworth's love of Chinese painting began 40 years ago in Hong Kong when she started lessons with a leading Chinese master, Professor Lai Tai Po. She became deeply absorbed in the art, reading extensively, learning the Chinese language and calligraphy to understand more of the writings and studying with artists from the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing.
On her return to Australia, Mirra began teaching while preparing for the exhibition of her work held in Hong Kong in 1981. She has taught at the Mitchell School of Creative Arts in Bathurst and Camp Creative in Grafton, Coffs Harbour and Katoomba. Mirra also holds classes at her studio in Belrose, Sydney working with small groups to give each student her full attention.
Mirra shares her knowledge and experience in teaching Chinese Painting through the DVD Brush Painting the Chinese Way available through mail order.
It soon occurred to her that she related more and more to the native flowers of Australia which seemed to be designed for the very expressive Chinese brushstrokes. Mirra slowly developed ways of capturing both the appearance and spirit of the unique Australian flora. Today she is considered an expert in this field.
Mirra has held several exhibitions in Sydney and interstate, where her sensitive interpretation of native flowers was well received.
Mirra Hainsworth was a founding member and Secretary of the Australian Chinese Painting Society for the past 16 years.