Adair Dunsford, The Naracoorte News
Edenhope artist, Meagan Lonsdale is currently exhibiting stunning pictures of the region’s native orchids at the Naracoorte Regional Art Gallery.
Running alongside the “Recognition” exhibition of portraits by Harrow artist Ron Penrose, Meagan has presented highly detailed paintings showcasing the region’s orchids.
Called “Little Blooms”, Meagan said each painting takes up to 70 hours to complete.
After moving to Edenhope in 2014, Meagan soon took an interest in the landscape, its wildlife and the native plants.
“I began to frequent my nearest woodland through the peak flowering season to marvel at all of the heath and orchids I could find.
“I am continually inspired by our region’s natural treasures,” she said.
Meagan is a keen photographer and uses her work as a primary source of reference material for paintings.
“The unique forms of native orchids, exquisite detail and variety motivated me to begin a collection of paintings and the study required to produce realistic representative artwork, furthered my appreciation of each orchid.
“Minute hairs, spots and glands, rich colours and varied shapes – all had to be observed with accuracy.
“Orchids amaze me,” she said.
Meagan lives on a small farm south of Edenhope and regularly exhibits work in the West Wimmera and surrounding districts.
Her exhibition at the Naracoorte Regional Art Gallery runs until April 13.
This article appeared in The Naracoorte News, 26 March 2025.
