A joint exhibition by two local artists is making its way to the Gallery
The Earth Beneath our Feet, which is a joint exhibition by Sally Spencer and Sue McLean of painting and installation work that celebrates the life force of Gaia – Mother Earth is coming to the Gympie Regional Gallery on Friday, 2 December to Saturday, 4 February 2023.
Sally Spencer has been looking at ancient cave paintings, the first records made by humankind. These Palaeolithic fragments reveal a viewpoint of our world where the sacred connection to animals which have sustained us, and the beliefs which have formed a basis of our ever-evolving culture, are front and center. The clay paper, handmade by master paper maker Dion Channer, provides the earthly base for reinterpreted ancient motifs. The dynamic impact these images have on our psyche is of great fascination to the artist. Her clay sculptural components, the stuff made from earth, are metaphors for our journey through time, now showing signs of returning to the ground.
Sue McLean’s large-scale paintings are about the unseen life that is a constant beneath our feet allowing life to flourish enriching the earth to the edge of space. Technology and curiosity have enabled us to wonder at the symbiosis of the minute that generates the magnificence of nature in all its forms, flourishing and evolving into minds that question, seeking understanding.
To support this exhibition, archaeological kits from the Queensland Museum and artefacts supplied by the Gympie Bone Museum will be on display providing a great interactive component for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Local First Nations Butchulla Elder Nai Nai Bird has also been invited to include artworks which reflect the artists passion to include elements from one of the oldest living populations in the world.
Join the official opening event at the Gympie Regional Gallery on Saturday, 3 December at 1.30pm.
Entry to the Gympie Regional Gallery at 39 Nash Street is free, with opening hours from 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday.
For more information, or to make bookings for workshops and themed activities, visit www.gympie.qld.gov.au/gallery or call 5481 0733.
Artwork credit: Sue McLean, Gaias Carpet, 2022.