Sabina Klein, artist.
I’ve always found women who reinvent themselves inspirational, that’s why I’m excited to share the story (and beautiful home) of Melbourne artist Sabina Klein.
Sabi’s world was rocked eighteen months ago after the sudden death of her father. It forced to her to think about her own mortality and contemplate her purpose in life.
“I went into shock for a while. Being a mum is great but it probably wasn’t enough for me. I analysed who I am; what makes me happy, what I really wanted to do. One day I woke up and said, “I’m going to the art shop, I’m going to paint today and that’s how it started,” she recalls.
Original artwork by Sabina Klein, 2014. Photo – Changwei Dean. Production – Martine Harte.
Although she’d always painted “on and off” she had finally given herself permission to go for it.
The dining space in her Bayside home was transformed into a studio where she started painting abstract, colour-charged works.
She painted like mad until her (very supportive) husband said it was time to do something with all the paintings piling up in the hall.
Satara Vessels tuccibrown , artwork, Sabina Klein part of the ‘Spring’ series. Photo – Changwei Dean. Production – Martine Harte.
Next came a Facebook page and an Instagram account and her art caught the eye of an Australian television series.
“Well The Block happened through a homewares designer Fiona from Provincial Style on Instagram who’d seen my work and wanted to sell it – she said, “I’m working with The Block, can I show them your work?” And I said, “Oh sure, as if they’ll be interested!”
A month later she contacted me to say, “they want some of your pieces!”
Within a week I was doing a brand new commission for them and now they’ve got six paintings in Chris and Jenna’s apartment. It’s so exciting, been quite a whirlwind! It’s crazy that this is happening from something I’m involved in.”
Globe West Juno Lucina 3 seater Sofa in cool grey, Armadillo and Co Rug tuccibrown Photo – Changwei Dean. Production – Martine Harte.
This life change also inspired an update of her decor, with the help of very talented stylist Melissa Tantuccio from tuccibrown style lab.
“We wanted something sleek but family friendly, because this room is a happy room where we pretty much will sit and do memory games with the kids. Leo and Ivy will sit here, have their dinner, do their homework, watch tv, it’s the hub of the house,” says Sabi.
The result was a mid-century influenced space, clean lines with subtle colour from soft furnishings.
Satana Mexicana Lounge chair , cushionopoly ‘Two Up’ cushion and print ‘Middle of Nowhere‘ Moonstorm Blush tuccibrown Photo – Changwei Dean. Production – Martine Harte.
Master bedroom brought to life by one of the owner’s artworks. Freedom bedlinen. Photo – Changwei Dean. Production – Martine Harte.
Photo – Changwei Dean. Production – Martine Harte.
Sabi in her tranquil garden. Her children, 7-year-old Leo and 4-year-old Ivy are big fans of the space! Photo – Changwei Dean. Production – Martine Harte.
So there you go… someone who stopped dreaming and started doing.
Many thanks for having Engaging Women Kleins.
Pop across to check out Sabi’s website here
Want to know more about tuccibrown’s personalised home styling business head here TB Style Lab to hook up with Melissa Tantuccio.
Main Image: Melbourne artist Sabina Klein pictured here with her late father Michael Malinski in 2002. Photo – Changwei Dean. Production – Martine Harte.