Gloucester art exhibition ‘Ibis and Friends’ highlights plight of Australia’s native birds

FRAN Alexander loved drawing as a child, but the demands of a career and family life left little time for art.

Now retired, she’s living her best life.

“Living in beautiful Gloucester and being able to paint each day is like a dream come true for me,” Alexander said.

Her solo exhibition, Ibis and Friends, is the upcoming show at Gloucester Art Gallery, running from 4 – 29 November.

Following her retirement, Alexander completed a Diploma in Visual Arts, studying under a range of artists and printmakers, including Australian artists Roslyn Keen and Beth Hamilton.

“Since moving to Gloucester, I’ve also met some wonderful local artists whose work and enthusiasm are always inspiring,” she said.

Much of her pleasure in making art comes from the creative process and the possibilities that come with starting every new piece.

Her latest exhibition, Ibis and Friends, combines her love of art with her concern for Australia’s birds.

“Threatened species have disappeared from almost 70 per cent of Australia since European colonisation,” she said.

“Birds give such joy: I wanted to reciprocate by raising the issue of their plight.”

The exhibition will feature a range of media, including watercolours, oils, woodblock prints, copper etchings and sculptures.

“My art is pretty eclectic,” Alexander added.

“I generally let the subject dictate the colour and texture. For this exhibition I’ve chosen a very narrative form with a simple illustrative style.”

She hopes Ibis and Friends will encourage people to think and talk about what is happening to birds, both in Australia and around the world.

“If there is something I can do to make sure future generations can enjoy what we have, I’d be happy with that,” she said.

Ibis and Friends opens at 2pm on Saturday, 7 November.

Alexander’s son Tim is a chef. He and his wife are flying from Dubai to cater for the opening.

By Wendy BUSWELL