I AIN’T NO FANCY BIRD

Jump Left launches I Ain’t No Fancy Bird, a new exhibition of personal yet flamboyant works by local Naarm (Melbourne) artist Maya Tamang. Opening Thursday 23 July 2026, 6–8 pm.

Maya Tamang's I Ain't No Fancy Bird is the culmination of her recent studio practice, an exhibition which focuses on deeply felt portraits of people who are inspirational and important to her. Drawing from classic Hollywood, her paintings channel the playfulness, flamboyance, expressiveness, and exuberance of that era, characteristics similarly personified by her chosen sitters and cultural icons. This exciting new exhibition demonstrates Tamang's commitment to her practice and significant artistic accomplishments to date.

—

"This is a deeply emotional and personal show for me. My art is a way to express myself and escape from a harsh world. My work is a mix of fun, flamboyance, camp and emotional pieces, and I Ain't No Fancy Bird is a fun, fashionable and bold exhibition with references to old Hollywood. I hope people will feel inspired and connected to my work. It is important to me to create inclusive artistic spaces, to build a professional career, and be visible. I also want to empower and inspire younger female artists."
—Maya Tamang

—

Maya Tamang is an early-career, primarily self-taught artist based in Naarm/Melbourne. Her work draws on personal experience — including living with autism and past trauma — alongside a passionate and playful engagement with camp humour and bold, theatrical aesthetics. Tamang's paintings are energised by a desire to inspire and connect with audiences, bringing a mixture of rawness, honesty, vulnerability and humour to her direct approach and attitude. Tamang has exhibited in numerous solo and group exhibitions in Naarm/Melbourne.

This project is supported by Jump Left, Donkey Wheel House and Impact Neighbourhoods.

Image detail: Maya Tamang, Rueben, 2026, from the Rueben series, acrylic, oil and pastel on canvas, 101 × 101 cm