Kirsty Leishman - Gumnut Cameo [Pink and Green]

Raffia and Ceramic ( 7 cm x 7 cm)

I became fascinated with the blue quandong tree after discovering their intricate seeds in a walk through the Brisbane Botanical Gardens. I began creating linocut prints and ceramic sculptures of their forms. Soon after, I participated in an eco-printing workshop where I used the natural tannins in the leaves to create impressions on paper. I was inspired to experiment further with linocut prints before I began printing with the leaves in paint and creating impressions in clay. Those prints sparked my curiosity to use other plant materials I’ve found, including macaranga leaves, lavender, gumnuts, Bodhi tree leaves from near the Gallery of Modern Art, and even spinach from my fridge.

Artist's Bio:

Kirsty Leishman borrowed a book on drawing from the library after she participated in an arts therapy group, wanting to acquire more skills to adequately express herself.  Since that time she has embraced opportunities to partake in creative communities and practices, discovering an affinity for coiled raffia weaving, ceramics, and block printing. Her work often brings these media together in contemplations on the details of the natural environment. She holds an M.Phil in Cultural Studies.