Artists gather at Rainbow Beach
Artist, Sandra Ross (left), in the field, with wildflowering workshop participants. Image by Melissa Stannard
The ‘Wildflowering at Cooloola’ art and wildflower day was held at Rainbow Beach Community Hall and nearby locations last month.
The event was jointly organised by the ‘Wild/flower Women’ art group of the Sunshine Coast, and Cooloola Coastcare.
The workshop is a prelude to the up-coming exhibition ‘Wild/flower Women III – Women Walking Country’ to be held at the Gympie Regional Gallery, October 8 – November 28, 2020.
The day began in the hall, with the eight participating artists demonstrating their work, which included a range of techniques such as paper-making, print-making, collage, frottage (rubbing), and the production of dyes and inks from natural materials.
In the afternoon, workshop participants fired their imaginations to create art on country, encouraged to connect with the environment around them by their artistic mentors. Indigenous jeweller and artist, Melissa Stannard, shared insights from her cultural heritage.
The day was immensely rewarding for all participants, and the art workshop and wildflower walks are likely to become an annual event in Rainbow Beach.
“We were happy to support this event as we want to encourage people to find out about, and celebrate the wildflowers and natural beauty of our region”, said lead organiser, Dr Sue Davis.
“Using art as a frame is a great way to get people to look closely, and appreciate the colour, form and beauty of nature’s gifts”.
For more details about the ‘Wild/flower Women III’ exhibition and public programs check out www.wildflowerwomen.net or the Gympie Regional Gallery’s website.
The ‘Wild/flower Women III’ exhibition and programs are supported by Gympie Regional Council and the Queensland Government through the Regional Arts Development Fund.
Linda Tabe, Vice President, Cooloola Coastcare
