Conversations with the Saltmarsh

The Conversations with the Saltmarsh exhibition centres on the dynamic coastal saltmarsh ecosystems in Clarence. Over the past two years, a group of local artists including Megan Walch, Bec Stevens, Andy Vagg, Simon Spain, Julia Drouhin, Cassie Sullivan and Ben Richardson, along with national and international visiting artists including Greg Alexander, Heather Leatham, Vicki Reynolds and Lucille Martin, have regularly gathered to immerse themselves in the intricate beauty and ecological importance of the local saltmarsh through observation, artistic expression, and dialogue. These creative encounters aim to explore, interpret, and celebrate the saltmarsh’s richness through a shared “conversation.”

This resulting exhibition showcases an ongoing artistic dialogue with the saltmarsh and seeks to inspire similar creative conversations throughout Tasmania. The exhibition will conclude with a series of special events on World Wetlands Day, Sunday, February 2nd, under the theme “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future.”

Wetlands are vital ecosystems that support endangered species, provide clean water and food, and protect against natural disasters like floods and droughts. They are essential for climate resilience, biodiversity, and human well-being but face threats from development, pollution, and climate change. Conversations with the Saltmarsh raises awareness of these challenges while celebrating the beauty and importance of wetlands.