Four artists. Four incredible creative women. One excellent excuse to be nosey.
With State Theatre Company South Australia’s upcoming production of ART kicking off tomorrow, we called on four of our favourite South Australian Frockers - Sarah McDonald, Denise Hojdyssek, Greta Laundy and Leah Grant - to talk art, inspiration, life in SA and the FMO pieces they keep reaching for.
MEET LEAH GRANT
You've almost certainly seen her work, even if you didn't know her name.
Street artist, potter and educator Leah Grant has been quietly (well - not that quietly) brightening up Adelaide's streets for years. Her murals are bold, joyful and the kind of thing that makes you stop mid-commute. She's recently made the move to Geelong, but with regular trips back for projects and a heart that's firmly planted in SA, we're claiming her as one of our own.
Tell us about your work and what you’re currently creating.
Like any artist, my work is always evolving, and sometimes it’s not until I look back on what I’ve made over the years that I notice the similarities and connections. My work has a strong connection to nature, specifically native Australian leaves and flowers. I find refreshment in a forest walk, coastal view or river run, and I notice the colours of leaves, the patterns on rocks and the movement of water.
When I’m exploring rock pools with my kids, I feel this burst of inspiration. It’s almost like I want to bottle up all the colours, textures and patterns and pour them out around me back at my desk in the studio.
I’m currently working towards my first mural and residency in QLD, where I’ll be working with students at a school in Chinchilla to transform their school building. I’m also teaching at a pottery studio and making ceramic work for upcoming markets, alongside some exciting client collaborations that I can’t say too much about… yet!
What does ‘art’ mean to you right now?
To me, art is story telling. It’s a way to communicate an idea, message or feeling. It tells a story from the artist or helps the viewer find their story. Art is inspiring, shocking, impressive, frustrating, beautiful and also ugly. It should offend, surprise and delight us. Art is solving problems and displaying creativity.
What do you love about Frock Me Out and do you have a favourite print or piece?
So many things, quality and style are the first two that come to mind.
FMO is so well made; the quality is felt in the fit, the fabric and the stitching. I love that the style feels unique, and the pieces are the kind of items you’ll keep in your wardrobe forever and wear constantly.
I have the Denim Freestyler Jumpsuit and I honestly can’t wear it enough. It’s flattering, comfortable and stylish, and somehow helps me get into my creative zone. I wish I could paint murals in it, but I love it too much to risk getting paint on it!
Sometimes I wear it while doing pottery because clay washes out. I can dress it up with boots or wear it casually out for coffee.
It’s one of those wardrobe pieces that I know will always get compliments when I wear it.
Leah wears the Vintage Wash Denim Freestyler Jumpsuit (OG)
What helps inspire you during the creative process?
I can sit and draw leaves for days. When I go for a walk, I often find myself collecting leaves and gum nuts to bring home and draw. I much prefer having the physical plant in front of me when I’m sketching.
I design my murals by hand first using paper and fineliner, then add colour digitally for client mock ups. I love the feel and sound of mark making on paper, and getting away from admin and emails really helps me reconnect with creativity.
Sometimes, when I’m feeling stuck, I just have to set myself a really small, achievable goal so the project doesn’t feel overwhelming. It might be as simple as writing a list of what I want to throw on the wheel, usually less than I know I can achieve and before long I’ve zoned out, my arms are covered in clay, and I’m fully in a flow state.
QUICK 5: Local Edition
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A South Australian event you love:
WOMADelaide
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Another South Australian artist you admire:
I can’t pick one! I love everything that Kate Dyer is involved in from her studio to her photography business. Lena Baumgartner, Jessie Feitosa, Jack Fran, Joel Van Moore, Jasmine Crisp and so many others. Adelaide is bursting with brilliant creatives.
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Favourite way to experience art in SA:
Guided street art tour or strolling through the CBD on a self-directed adventure.
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Favourite coffee spot:
Jewels Of Thought Records
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Where you’d take out-of-towners first:
Adelaide Central Markets
Leah's work will be featured in the Newmarch Community Art Show in Prospect, which opens on 17th of July 2026. View more of Leah's work here.
