Wildflowering by Design is an exhibition that explores contemporary responses to our botanical and wildflower heritage, presenting works by Queensland artists from various art and design fields. Many women, both well-known and unsung, have highlighted the significance, functionality and beauty of Australian wildflowers. These include Traditional Custodians, illustrators who have documented native plants, and artists and designers who have used wildflowers as materials, subjects and inspiration.
Women like Kathleen McArthur (1915-2000) and Judith Wright (1915-2000) are referred to as ‘wild/flower women’ because of their love for wildflowers and nature. They were independent trailblazers who used their writings and artistry to inspire a love for our native wildflowers and plants.
This exhibition celebrates the achievements of these women, who became champions and pioneers due to their appreciation for the humble and often overlooked. Exhibition artists were invited to respond to this legacy and engage with local landscapes, plants and stories to create new works across the art and design spectrum. By celebrating the botanical environment through a design lens, artists in Wildflowering by Design explore natural materials, co-design processes, handcrafting and the digital realm.
Supported by the Regional Arts Development Fund, exhibition curators Davis and Chandler invited local artists to participate in an immersive ‘Canaipa Wildflowering Retreat’ on nearby Russell Island last July. Focusing on connecting, sharing and experimenting, ideas and artwork developed during the retreat are showcased as part of the Wildflowering by Design exhibition.
Local artists include Tricia Dobson, Sharon Jewell, Maria Cleary, Sonja Carmichael, Jen Conde, Siobhan Deemester, Sara Za Enback, Beverley Ann Jensen, Julie Menzies, Jenny Sanzaro-Nishimura, Meg Spratt and Sandy Ward.
Opening Event and Artist Talk: 10am, Sunday 6 April 2025
Marni Stuart, After the fire, (Detail), 2022, digital printed linen fabric, 154 x 300cm. Courtesy of the artist.
