Gallery nurtures natural beauty
TWEED River Art Gallery has opened a new exhibition perfect for those bitten by the art bug.
Beauty and Nature: Art of the Scott sisters, features illustrations of butterflies, moths, caterpillars and plans by prominent 19th Century natural history artists Harriet and Helena Scott.
Gallery director Susi Muddiman said both sisters were talented and determined to make a difference.
"They were also fortunate to have a father who was a trained artist and scientist himself," Miss Muddiman said.
"He taught his daughters the techniques to paint nature, and also the scientific skills to observe, collect and record it.
"This supportive background led them to a remarkable career in scientific illustrations - many of which are still used by scientists today."
The sisters' work had also proven valuable material for scientists according to Australian Museum entomology collection manager David Britton.
"The Scott sisters were among the first to illustrate the life histories and immature stages of Australian moths and butterflies," Dr Britton said.
"They were meticulous and understood the biology of their subjects in great detail."
