Gallery celebrates world class art exhibition in Northcliffe

An acclaimed art exhibition was celebrated at Painted Tree Gallery in Northcliffe on May 26 at its launch event attracting an enthusiastic and supportive crowd.

The Three Swans exhibition opened May 16 at Painted Tree Gallery and the event was held to celebrate the work of artist Sue Kalab.

The theme of the work was inspired by a survey of WA’s black swans conducted by the artist and her friend in Leschenault Estuary during January this year.

The exhibition is a chance to bear witness to the rapid decline of our State’s native faunal emblem and highlight concerns for its future.

Ms Kalab has been the keeper of count records since the early 2000s.

There are approximately 1448 Black Swans, a dramatic decrease in numbers since more than 5000 were counted at the estuary 20 years ago.

Ms Kalab said the Black Swans congregate each summer in Leschenault Estuary during their moulting period, as they are unable to fly.

“The estuary is a vital stronghold for the species over long hot dry summers when regional wetlands, billabongs, creeks and rivers are increasingly evaporating,” she said.

“We must act now to ensure there is a future for this majestic creature.”

Ms Kalab said she was pleased to exhibit in Northcliffe and it’s natural setting.

“I’m pleased to exhibit in Northcliffe because my work belongs in such a setting by the bush and the ocean,” she said.

“Mallacoota, where I became a nature artist, is in a similar wilderness location in tall forest in far-east Gippsland on the south-eastern corner of Australia and a tiny town in Croajingolong National Park.

“Even though I moved back to Western Australia years ago it left its legacy in my art and dedication to environmental advocacy.

“Many thanks to all of you who’ve wished me well for this adventure. “

The Three Swans exhibition is featuring at The Painted Tree Gallery Northcliffe until June 30.