Transformations: Art of the Scott Sisters is now on display at the Shellharbour Civic Centre. Photos: Shellharbour City Council.
Intricate paintings of butterflies, caterpillars, native flowers and landscapes created 180 years ago are on display in Shellharbour this month.
Transformations: Art of the Scott Sisters by two of Australia’s most accomplished 19th century natural history illustrators Harriet and Helena Scott will be on exhibition for free at Shellharbour Civic Centre until 13 November.
On loan from the Australian Museum, it showcases up to 39 professionally mounted and framed reproductions of original watercolour artworks from the pioneering sisters, captured during an important chapter in Australia’s history.
Created between 1846 and 1851, the intricate paintings of butterflies, native plants and scientific discoveries are celebrated for their artistic beauty and scientific accuracy, with many of their scientific illustrations still used by researchers today.
Many illustrate the life histories and immature stages of Australian butterflies and moths.
Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer said the exhibition provided a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with local biodiversity and Australian history.
“Transformations: Art of the Scott Sisters is a beautiful celebration of Australia’s natural environment and the remarkable women who helped document it,” Cr Homer said.
“The Scott sisters’ artwork reminds us that our local environment is something to be valued and protected.
“Even small actions, such as planting native butterfly-friendly species in our gardens, can help create habitats and support healthy ecosystems across our city.”
The timing of its arrival aligns with Shellharbour City Council’s progression of its Greening Strategy, aimed at enhancing urban tree canopy, biodiversity and habitat connectivity across the city.
Through the Scott sisters’ intricate artworks, visitors are invited to explore the important role gardens and green spaces play in supporting wildlife.
The Scott sisters were taught drawing by their father, Alexander Walker Scott, and later by neighbour, friend and English-born Australian artist S.T. Gill.
They lived on Ash Island near the Hunter River in NSW and wandered the landscape collecting and observing its insects and plant life.
The exhibition, hosted by Shellharbour City Council, is suitable for all ages and offers a unique blend of art, science and environmental education.
Residents, families, gardening enthusiasts, nature lovers and school groups are all encouraged to visit the exhibition and be inspired to help create a more butterfly-friendly community.
Transformations: Art of the Scott Sisters will be held at the Shellharbour Civic Centre until 13 November. Admissions is free.
