Tania Le Petit’s love of nature and creativity began in childhood, often spent in her favourite climbing tree with a sketchbook or drawing her dog and best friend, Max. She pursued the arts throughout school, with her HSC body of work shortlisted for Art Express, and later completed a Certificate IV in Fine Art at TAFE Riverina Institute, exploring drawing, sculpture, printmaking, and ink.
Tania went on to study a BA Fine Art at CSU Wagga Wagga, majoring in jewellery design and manufacture with minors in drawing and design. It was here she discovered the scientific magic of anodising reactive metals like titanium, falling in love with the way electricity could transform metal into vibrant colours and allow her to explore colour, contrast, and harmony in a unique way.
During her studies, she participated in many group exhibitions and created a final-year body of work combining anodised titanium and sterling silver metamorphosis pendants with mixed-media Murrumbidgee landscapes, reflecting the carefree moments of her childhood.
Tania completed a work placement at the prestigious JamFactory Contemporary Craft and Design in Adelaide and later joined their associate program for a short time, developing her skills and working on commissions such as the South Australian Tourism Corporate Gift and the Premier of South Australia pin. These experiences helped her grow as an artist and connect with inspiring peers.
Her work has been exhibited nationally in the Contemporary Wearables touring exhibition and Buda Historic Home and Garden’s Contemporary Australian Silver and Metalwork Award. Inspired by forms and patterns in nature, especially the butterfly life cycle, Tania explores themes of hope, resilience, and transformation. As a social worker with lived experience, she is also a strong advocate for mental health, using the butterfly as a metaphor for overcoming challenges, growth, and renewal.
Tania’s work is available for sale directly or through the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery.
