More Than Coal – Book Launch

This exhibition is a creative and explorative interpretation of the local natural environment by Hunter-based artist and author Bronwyn Grieve. that highlights work developed during Bronwyn’s PhD in Natural History Illustration and from her recently published book.

Artist Statement:

I have never met an art medium I don’t like: painting, drawing, printmaking, textiles….

It’s not about being ‘good’; research shows many benefits of creating, which can be a way to connect with the environment, touching us at a deeper level.  I interpret this area, but anyone can start ‘in your backyard, perhaps finding yourself ‘falling in love’ with those environments.

The Lower Hunter Valley is an environmentally rich area. I want others to know, celebrate, visit, and connect with it and although I’m trained in a traditional art form, it’s not just for specialists. My community focus, plus my passion for art, drives me to encourage others beyond the voice saying “I can’t do that.”

About the Artist:

Coming from a background in community development and advocacy, it is wonderful to bring these together with my art practice. It took a long time to make room for and call myself an artist.

Training in Natural History Illustration and extending it into a PhD has enabled this work to be born.

My two solo exhibitions were at Australia’s commercial textile gallery: Timeless Textiles, Newcastle, and Art Bazaars, as well as selling work through Dungog by Design. I co-run Fosterton Retreat in Dungog, a place to “Be nurtured in nature” through creative nature and creative spiritual retreats.

I also learn from, and exhibit with, two important art groups: ATHENA a group of talented mixed media female artists, and Newcastle Creative Embroiderers and Textile Artists.

Within the international context in 2024, I have a one-month artist’s residency at Chateau d’Orquevaux, Champagne, France.