Local artist showcases wetlands from land and air

A LOCAL Surf Coast artist’s exhibition at Hoops Gallery in Torquay will celebrate and explore the beauty and fragility of the Breamlea Karaaf Wetlands from both land and in the air.

The ‘Karaaf: A Shy Landscape’ exhibition will showcase the candid photography of Surf Coast artist Roza Marciniak, documenting the rare ecological and biodiverse value of the wetlands which are located between Torquay and Black Rock on the Surf Coast.

 

Home to a range of unique plant and wildlife, the area is under consideration for Ramsar status as an area of international significance and has long been of cultural significance to the Wadawurrung people.

In launching the exhibition alongside Surf Coast Shire Council Mayor Liz Pattison, Mrs Marciniak said she hoped her art would celebrate the beauty and vulnerability of the Breamlea Karaaf wetlands and draw attention to the need to protect its uniqueness and fragility.

 

“Although I have lived on the edge of the wetlands for over twenty years, it took that time

for me to be able to appreciate and photograph it as it deserves,” she said.

“I have been inspired by notions of the sublime, to capture the drama and beauty in its skies, waters, creatures and landforms.”

 

To capture the wetlands in its finest forms, Mrs Marciniak also took to the air in a helicopter to photograph the Karaaf at heights of up to 2500 feet.

“From this height the images disconnect us from familiar landmarks, inviting us to abandon pre-conceived notions of landscape and natural beauty.

“Our perspective of the wetlands is transformed and we see how tidal and creek water flows bring patterns in sand, vegetation and animal movement, creating a world of kaleidoscopic colours and mythical creatures.”

The exhibition is available for viewing at Hoops Gallery from March 2 to March 26.

Opening hours are Thursday/Friday 11am-4pm, Saturday/Sunday 10am-4pm and Monday 13 March (Labour Day) 10am-4pm.

For more, visit surfcoastartspace.com.au/