Gresford Arboretum Mural

Explore the Gresford arboretum, where a community's passion comes alive through the dedicated work of locals from groups like the Gresford District Community Group and Gresford District Landcare. Their vision extends beyond a mere botanical garden, aiming to infuse it with art, murals, and sculptures. The vibrant murals portraying local wildlife are the masterpieces of artist Christine Pike, whose home base is nearby Vacy. Christine embarked on a two-year journey, meticulously observing the changes in plants at the Arboretum. Her exploration extended across the Dungog Shire and Barrington National Park, documenting notes, conducting research, and sketching for the final murals. Eventually, she selected a range of species including the cockatoo, king parrots/satin bower birds, nocturnal powerful owl, possum and phascogale, and wedgetail eagle and chick to feature in her artwork. The entire project spanned two years from inception to completion. Drawing inspiration from artists like Molly Flaxman and Rhondda Walters and guided by the mentorship of Ann Cape, Christine expresses her artistry through watercolors and mixed media. Her creations, born from a fascination with life drawings, have earned her recognition as a Semi-Finalist in the Doug Moran National Portrait Prize, a Finalist in the Mosman Art Prize and the 42 Muswellbrook Art Prize, and a Winner of the Pam Jennings Memorial Open Prize in Scone.