Liam McNally
Connection with our surroundings and the environment are at the centre of CS Gallery’s 2023
window commissions.
Local artist and educator, Emma Ismawi, unveiled her works that celebrate the connection
between the land, local waterways, sky, animals and people this month.
In this commission, Emma has woven stories of local communities caring for the
environment and the impact this has on creatures of all sizes, including our essential
pollinating bees.
The works, titled “We don’t live in nature, we are nature”, emulates the interconnectedness of an ecosystem, and aims to inspire the community in their role as stewards of the land, and promote the appreciation of Melton’s unique natural environment.
Ms Ismawi said the hexagonal framework of the installation made her think of a beehive.
“Native bees are integral members of our ecosystem, as they are threatened so is this
Ecosystem,” she said.
“When we forget our role in nature, as stewards, protectors, givers and receivers we can
cause great harm to the ecosystem we live within, the consequences of which ripple
throughout our lives.”
Emma is an independent illustrator and designer, and lecturer at Collarts.
She has also been part of BE. Collective Culture since 2017 designing and facilitating events and programs with young creatives from historically excluded communities, creating culturally safe spaces and giving young people a platform to be seen and heard.
Melton Mayor Cr Lara Carli said council is “delighted” to be presenting Emma’s artwork to “elevate the connection we all feel with the world around us.”
“This is a beautiful celebration of our local bees and the way they work together and play a key
role in our environment,” she said.
