The WAS Gallery 2024 season has begun with a flourish of flowers and foliage thanks to the latest exhibition from local artist Janice Hunter.
Titled "mono no aware" the exhibition features sculptures of foliage and flowers created with paper, paint, wire and wood, inspired by the themes and disciplines of Ikebana, Japanese flower arranging.
The name "mono no aware" is a Japanese phrase which expresses the bittersweet feeling of seeing things change, and finding harmony with the impermanent nature of everything.
In 2023, Janice completed a certificate from the Sogetsu School of Ikebana in Japan which gave her a new appreciation for the techniques of Ikebana.
"This course has opened up a whole new way of seeing with respect, admiration and appreciation for Japanese techniques, aesthetics and the language of patterns," Janice said.
Rather than a straight copy of Japanese Ikebana displays, Janice has used her training and knowledge to create displays out of Australian flora and fauna.
Many of the pieces in the WAS Gallery exhibition feature timber from a Himalayan Cedar that collapsed at Janice's property following a storm in 2021.
Janice said she hopes to use the teachings and the stories of Japanese culture in her present work by representing her interpretation of the concepts.
Janice's "mono no aware" exhibition will show at the WAS Gallery, 37 Latrobe St Warragul until Saturday March 9.
The gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm.
The exhibition marks the beginning of a full and exciting 2024 program at the Gallery.
For more information about "mono no aware" and other exhibitions at the WAS Gallery, visit wasgallery.com.au