You have an incredibly distinct style that has translated magnificently to a POPP table - were there any special considerations you had to take into account when approaching this project, or was the transition to a ping pong table relatively seamless?

I’m used to painting large scale, however using enamel was new. It takes a lot longer to dry than acrylic paint, and has a different finish. It was fun creating an artwork out of a ping pong table - I’m interested in art for everyone, art as a part of daily life rather than something which exists exclusively in gallery spaces.

Depictions of the native flora and fauna of Australia feature prominently across all of your work. Can you tell us a little about what draws you to these motifs?

I grew up in rural Australia - our property backed onto state forest and so native plants and animals were a powerful presence during my formative years. I’m drawn to places that feel vast and wild and find that connecting to the natural world nurtures my creative spirit.


You're also responsible for a stunning mural in Kelly Park that was completed earlier in 2019. Was there a particular brief you were responding to in this case, and if so, was your POPP table painted as an extension to this?

The brief for the original Kelly Park mural was loosely based on ideas of community, joy and a celebration of the natural world. The POPP table wasn’t necessarily a conscious extension of the mural, but the two are obviously linked through my overall interest in these themes (and the black and white palette).

Between the vast murals and smaller canvas-based works you paint, is there a preferred scale you like to work to?

I like mixing it up. Painting murals is exciting - there’s an adrenaline rush that comes with it and anything large scale has a certain drama about it. I equally enjoy painting smaller works on canvas at home - they come together in a completely different way. Both processes are challenging and satisfying in their own right.

What role can public art play in raising awareness around environmental issues?

Simply by bringing our unique plant and animal species into public consciousness.
We can’t care about what we don’t see. In cities, many of us are disconnected in our daily lives from the vast strength and vitality of our natural environment. I want my art to serve as a reminder of its existence and its intrinsic value.

How would other councils and schools go about engaging you to paint a POPP table or mural of their own?

The easiest way would be to email me! I’m always open to new projects and commissions. I’m contactable at minnaleunig@gmail.com

Where else can people find your work in and around Melbourne?

I have murals in Preston, Carlton North, Werribee, Bendigo, Fitzroy and Cremorne that are all accessible to the public. For news about upcoming exhibitions and other projects, you can keep up to date via instagram or my website here.