Wonderscope is a playful wonderland the whole family will enjoy.
Yarra Ranges Regional Museum is thrilled to open its latest exhibition, Wonderscope by Yarra Valley based artist Clare James, which is on display in the Box Gallery until Sunday 10 December 2023.
Wonderscope transforms the Museum’s gallery into a wonderland where audiences are invited to explore and marvel at the intricate structures and microscopic ecosystems of the natural world.
Clare James draws inspiration from the unique and breathtaking Yarra Ranges environment to create her interactive display which encourage us to expand the ways in which we see the world by illustrating the invisible.
James is an artist, gardener and educator who lives and works on Wurundjeri Country in the Yarra Valley. Her practice weaves together her deep appreciation and understanding of nature with magical realism to create immersive and inspiring artworks and experiences.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child, encourages residents, particularly young families looking to occupy the school holidays, to visit the Museum and explore the exhibition. He said everyone will find something to enjoy in Wonderscope.
“Wonderscope is a visual feast for the senses and curious at heart, James’ work will inspire people of all ages.”
“It’s an amazing reminder that the Yarra Ranges is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna and natural history which has attracted many tourists, botanists, naturalists, and bird watchers to the area since the 1850s when colonists began exploring greater Melbourne,” said Cr Child.
Speaking at the opening, Yarra Ranges Regional Museum Exhibition Curator, Madeline Reece said experiencing the exhibition is like flicking through James’ sketch book and exploring her studio.
“James is a true naturalist, she observes nature, sometimes photographs or draws, ensuring her presence does not disrupt the delicate ecosystems at play,” she said.
“It is through this act of quiet observation that her paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and floristry evolve, inspired by her curiosity to investigate the complex ecological relationship between humans and the environment.
Her work reminds us that we cohabit with some of the quirkiest and most interesting creatures, subtly encouraging us to relocate that small garden snail from the footpath before someone steps on it.”
Wonderscope: Clare James is on display at Yarra Ranges Regional Museum from 13 Sept to 10 Dec 2023. Entry to the exhibition is free.
