For many of us, more time on our hands during Lockdown has led to a deeper appreciation of nature and the world around us. But for celebrated artist, Richard Weatherly OAM, nature – and especially wildlife, has been a major inspiration across an impressive career spanning over five decades.
Internationally recognised as an ornithologist and one of the world’s finest environmental artists, Richard’s passion has seen him travel to 6 continents, observing and documenting wildlife in its natural habitat. The result is an astounding body of works featuring birdlife in every setting imaginable from Black Cockatoos soaring high over the Grampians to Adelie Penguins marching across the Antarctic ice floes.
From now until 13 December, people will have an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy an extensive collection of Richard’s work at The Hive in Ocean Grove. Not simply a retrospective, the exhibition also includes stunning new paintings and sketches from Richard’s new book, A Brush with Birds, as well as a full repertoire of reproductions, and previous works which have been tightly treasured in collectors’ hands over the years.
Says Richard of the impetus for the book and the resulting exhibition, “For some time my family had been encouraging me to record the many and varied influences and experiences that have shaped my career as an artist. Not only has this been something of a nostalgic exercise, it’s also allowed me to take people through the evolution of each painting from preliminary sketches to studies to the final work.”
Also exhibiting alongside Richard is renowned local sculptor, Lucy McEachern, whose newest bronze, a Lotus Bird, will be on display amongst a significant collection of many of her stunning bird sculptures.
For those wishing to meet Richard and to obtain a personalised copy of A Brush with Birds, The Hive will also play host to a book signing session from 2pm – 4pm on Saturday, 21 November.
Where: The Hive, 41 Smithton Grove, Ocean Grove, 3226
Open : 10am – 4pm, Friday – Sunday
Entry: Free
When: Exhibition – now until 13 December 2020, Book signing – 2pm – 4pm, 21 November 2020.
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