Bendigo’s bountiful Box-Ironbark in focus

A NEW public art exhibition featuring the flora and fauna of Box-Ironbark Forest on Dja Dja Wurrung Country has recently been installed in Pennyweight Walk.

Pennyweight Walk runs between Hargreaves Street (exiting at Cycle Concepts) and Bath Lane (exiting at Bridgewater Bakehouse).

Commissioned by the City of Greater Bendigo and curated by Reece Hendy from Nacho Station Street Art Collective, the modus operandi of the Yirrip exhibition (which means ironbark in Dja Dja Wurrung language) is to reflect the textures, colours and landscapes of Bendigo National Park.

It features works from 15 artists, 12 of which are local to Greater Bendigo, who were selected for their connection to place, distinctive styles and ability to respond meaningfully to the themes of indigenous flora, fauna, and storytelling of Yirrip.

The showcased artists are Alicia Huddy, Bridget Finch, Troy Firebrace, Lauren Starr, Sarah Macumber, Amanda Peluso, David Snowdon, Jasmine Howell-Saunders, Levi Jessen-Fennell, Steven Stanley, Andre Sardone, Gus Eagleton, Juzpop, Manda Lane and Hendy.

Hendy explained that the heart of the exhibition, the Box-Ironbark Forest, is a resilient and unique ecosystem that literally wraps around Greater Bendigo.

“Bendigo National Park’s unique native bloom with its diverse flowers, textures, and landscapes, often goes unnoticed,” he said.

“This public art activation brings these elements into public view, infusing the city with a renewed celebration of its natural heritage.

“It invites locals and visitors alike to experience Bendigo’s natural beauty in a new light through the eyes of artists who honour the land, its stories and its spirit.”

An official launch party will take place in Pennyweight Walk on Saturday 29 November between 3pm and 4.30pm.