Mad about art in the garden

Andrea Hopgood from Paperworks Gallery in Berwick using natural dyes to colour fabric. She uses leaves, flowers, onion, avacado and carrots to find natural dyes and boils them for two hours in a cauldren. 159147_01 Picture: ROB CAREW

By Alana Mitchelson

THERE was something for everyone at Gembrook’s Art in the Garden exhibition at the weekend.
Event secretary Jillian Ronald said the star of the show was Sue Jarvis who offered her 10-acre property as a Gallery Garden.
“It was looking its very best on Sunday,” Ms Ronald said.
“Previously a potato farm, Sue has developed it into a beautiful garden over a period of many years.
“Dotted throughout the garden, artists could be discovered working their craft, drawing or painting. It was almost like a treasure hunt.
“A dramatic and fascinating exhibition was presented by Andrea Hopwood setting up camp with her silk and cashmere scarves complete with fire for boiling up the dyes.”
Visitors began their art experience at the Gembrook Community Centre which showcased 25 artists, a millinery demonstration and encouraged participation in a large community garden canvas.
Mosaic artist Belinda Conibeer displayed her life-size Garden Goddess sculpture, created especially for Art in the Garden, at the entrance to the garden.
Beside the sculpture was a Mad Hatter’s tea party with Alice, the Mad Hatter and Miss Lady Bug on hand to serve guests a cup of tea and a cupcake.
“It was an amazing day. Successful in every way,” Ms Ronald said.
“There was so much for everyone to do and see. There are so many talented creative people in and around the region.”
All profits from the day will be directed back to supporting arts in Cardinia Shire.