She initially found sculpturing intimidating, especially with metal, because it had a masculine tone and was dominated by men, but she was allured by the properties of copper. “Copper itself is quite a soft and warm material and it was those qualities that at first attracted me to it. But then I also found I could draw a lot of cultural connection between copper and my own heritage as a Lebanese-Australian and the Islamic decorative arts,” she said.” Her skills are self-taught, built by trial and error. “Everything has definitely been a learning curve,” she says. “It’s challenging but it’s allowed me to become really absorbed in the process.” All of Shireen’s works are hand-made and one sculpture can develop over a period of months. For the past two years, she has created her works out of the Parramatta Artists Studios. “I get a lot of time to think about my art while in the studio, and I consider all the elements and perspectives of each work constantly, in addition to doing research. It allows me to go in-depth with the concept as I undertake the making,” said Shireen. There are currently 14 artists-in-residence at the Parramatta studios. They don’t collaborate but they do share ideas. Artists apply annually for a space and Shireen has been successful for the past two years. “It is a great space for artists to meet and discuss and share ideas, and it’s an amazing opportunity to connect with the broader Sydney arts community,” says Shireen. ‘We are all connected to Campbelltown (one way or another)’ is at Campbelltown Art Centre until 14 October. It celebrates the 30th anniversary of the centre with new commissions and existing works from 13 artists that consider the suburb through its history, place and people. MERCEDES-BENZ PARRAMATTA 20 CULTURE