Botanical Art Exhibition

In memory of Banks and Solander.

Two hundred and fifty years ago, botanists Joseph Banks and Daniel Solander accompanied Captain James Cook on his voyage to New Zealand. They were fascinated by New Zealand's unique plants and collected herbarium samples which are now in the Museum of Natural History in London, in Te Papa and Auckland Museum.

They had illustrations made which have been recorded in the Banks Florilegium - there's a copy in the Botanic Gardens library - and were the first glimpse scientists and plant lovers in Britain and Europe had of our native flora.

To recognise the visit of Banks and Solander and the knowledge they took back to Europe with them the Friends of the Gardens Painting Group and a group of invited botanical artists is holding an exhibition of works featuring New Zealand native plants in the gallery in the Visitor Centre at the Gardens. This is on until August 18th.

Works are for sale and a number of artists have also provided cards and prints of their works - an affordable option!

A series of workshops is also being arranged. See the website for details and booking. www.aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz

This year's Friends Visiting Artist, jeweller Brenda Hart is also working and exhibiting her exquisite vision of our native flora in the gallery.

Two stunning exhibitions - not to be missed.