Michelle Savoye travelled from France to Australia, came across Mt Isa and settled there by chance. The Selwyn Ranges form the backdrop to Mt Isa's industrial landscape and the contrast of red earth and 9.5 hours of sunshine a day have influenced her work. Along with the natural landscapes the combination of cultures living and working in the city have also impacted on the shapes and colours of her pottery. Geographical isolation is a boon to her work, but a supportive pottery group combined with Flying Arts and other tutors, combats the effects of insularity that isolation could produce.