Meet the Artist | About Rowana Mallett

Story-telling travel-inspired art by Rowana

My philosophy

Creating colourful travel art that’s a perfect fit with your home

I’m Rowana Mallett (also known as Sharmalee), founder and artist behind South Island Art, with 20 years of experience in art, design and graphic communication.

My Mission

Memories & moments

My mission is to be a unique destination for evocative travel-inspired art that captures your travel memories, through timeless pieces designed to last a lifetime.

I specialise in travel art as so often our most cherished memories are tied to a certain place. Inspired by a childhood spent abroad, as well as recent travels, my art explores the connections between those precious memories and locations. From once-in-a-lifetime experiences to the magic of a local beauty spot, I use colour to communicate the joy of being in that special place and instant in time.

COmmission highlight

A highlight has been being commissioned to paint a Corgi for a giant trail celebrating Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee in central London.

A signature style as individual as you

I use a mix of techniques to create an effortless and dynamic look. My trademark signature style, featuring eye-catching stripes and architectural elements, comes from my love of Impressionist art.

Each piece I create is formed by building layers of colour and geometric shapes that explore our connections with travel and what it brings us emotionally. My passion for colour and travel means you can count on distinctive palettes and memorable designs.

More about my style

Unforgettable art

Having trained from art school to a degree and profession in Graphic Communication, I know how to combine design and print to create unforgettable visuals that bring your memories to life. Art that brings a smile every day, whether that’s one part of an eclectic gallery wall or a striking focal point in your home.

Statement pieces to match your home

Meaningful

My art is about creating meaningful pieces that express your individuality through the stories hidden inside, turning your space into somewhere you can’t wait to come back to.

Colourful

The happy and uplifting colours I use are rooted in those that you find in your own home. They're carefully matched to interior paint brands for statement pieces that are a seamless fit with your home.

Made to last

The materials I choose for my products are carefully picked with quality, durability and longevity in mind.

Make it yours

My art can be customised to your style in colour and size, or commissioned to tell your personal story, removing any worries over whether a piece will fit in with your style and home.

I was so glad to discover South Island Art and the lovely Rowana while looking for a unique and special wedding gift. I didn’t know exactly what I had in mind until I came across her striking prints and in particular her bespoke storyline skylines. The entire process was seamless, from the initial design to choosing the colour palette and seeing her bring the individual illustrations to life. Being in Australia was also no barrier, as Rowana’s professionalism and regular updates kept me informed every step of the way, with it arriving in plenty of time and in perfect condition. I’m also fortunate to own a beautiful piece from her ready made collection for my own home. Thank you Rowana!

– AMANDA, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA

So the boys nursery received this… we commissioned it by Rowana of South Island Art who made the process so easy… Such a lovely lady and such an incredible piece. Thank you! There were many tears… they absolutely loved it and said it was the most beautiful thing in the nursery. I felt so proud handing it over. Thank you again.

– O, LONDON, UK

Why South Island Art

I called my business South Island Art as my pieces fall into set travel themes - cityscapes, seascapes and iconic landmarks. I liked the connotations of travel in the name and my heritage is Sri Lankan - a southern island in the Indian Ocean.

Work with me

Art for interior designers

Made to match your schemes

I welcome enquiries from trade about potential collaborations. Bespoke and ready-made pieces have been used in residential projects, creating the perfect finishing touch to your interiors. If you would like to see a sample print, please do email me at info@southislandart.com

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Story-telling travel-inspired art by Rowana