Furari Flores - Stealing Flowers
Published 15 January 2024
Written by: TFG Staff
Imagery: Furari Flores by Cara-Ann Simpson
Landing this week at the USQ Art Gallery, "Furari Flores” (Stealing Flowers) is a multisensory art experience by local artist Cara-Ann Simpson; an immersive exhibition that guides viewers not just to observe the beauty of nature, but draws them into a world of botanical exploration and deeper meaning.
On the surface, the collection of works is a mesmerizing look at the beauty and wonder of plants and our connection to them; a vast multi-media exhibition showcasing fauna local to the area, encompassing photography, moving images, textiles, sculptures, and evocative scent works like ‘petrichor’ (the smell of rain as it hits the earth).
. . .The striking visuals, creativity and depth of artistic talent on display across the varied pieces cannot be overstated and are reason enough the visit, but within the exhibition, Simpson's artistic narrative is interwoven with her own life-changing journey with unexpected illness, a year-long hospital stay, and a painstaking recovery process.
Diagnosed with a brain infection in 2017 that left the artist unable to walk and speak, Furari Flores grew from that experience. . . her daily “adventures” of bringing flowers into her rehabilitation room, orginally intended to bring joy, evolving into a resolved body of artwork that mirrors her path from despair to hope, and her recovery into a poignant and meaningful healing process.
This exhibition is more than a visual celebration; it's a story of transformation and renewal, and the rediscovery of life's beauty in adversity. Each artwork, with its unique medium and message, invites viewers to ponder the fragility and strength of life. It's an exploration of the deeper meanings and connections in our lives, offering a perspective on how beauty and joy can be cultivated, even from life's darkest moments.
The exhibition is now open to the public until 16 February 2024, Tuesday to Friday, 10am-3pm, and is supported by the University of Southern Queensland, Creative Australia, Arts Queensland, Regional Arts Australia and the Australian Cultural Fund.
Accompanying the exhibition are deep listening sessions (appointment with the artist), alongside a one-day workshop on exhibition storytelling. The exhibitions is wheelchair accessible and is available to read and listen as both braille and audio.
For more information click here.
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