Flowerbones of Meanjin is the title of the work I created for Rearranged: Art of the Flower. When I was asked to participate in in this beautiful exhibition at Museum of Brisbane it was important for me to highlight the rich and diverse native flora from within this region, Turrabal and Jagera Country. Deciding which species to work with was a difficult decision, there are so many incredible plants native to this subtropical region. My selection tended towards those I knew well, plants I had encountered bushwalking and street walking in Meanjin (Brisbane). Whilst much of the original vegetation of the city centre has now been diminished, Brisbane boasts a wide variety of beautiful native street trees. Upon my many visits to the city centre, whilst others crunch seedpods and fallen flowers under foot, I collect them filling my pockets and handbag with these beautiful treasures. This collection makes its way back to my studio inspiring new pieces.

The native plant species which inspired and informed the work for the exhibition are as follows:

• Brachyciton discolor, common name: Lacebark tree.

• Melaleuca viminalis, common name: Weeping bottlebrush.

• Casuarina cunninghamiana, common name: River sheoak.

• Ficus coronata, common name: Sandpaper fig.

• Pittosporum revolutum, common name: Brisbane laurel.

• Parsonsia brisbanensis, common name: Brisbane silkpod.

I respectfully reference these plants of Meanjin and acknowledge their cultural significance to the Traditional Owners.

Read more in my Q&A with Museum of Brisbane here. Watch artist interview and studio tour with Museum of Brisbane here.

Photography: Claudia Baxter and Sarah Rayner.