Entertainment
6 August, 2026
Forest flora and fauna inspire new exhibition
AN exhibition of intricate printmaking and hand-crafted timber sculptures by two local artists will be held at the Tablelands Regional Gallery in Atherton next month.
Whispers of the Forest, will feature the works of Maryke Dobe and Michael Pluschke, and their varying interpretations of flora and fauna, to take viewers on an inspiring walk through the diverse forests of Far North Queensland.
Maryke has translated her impressions into many vibrant and stunning artworks on paper through a variety of print techniques.
She has used the Micron Etching Press and hand printing with a Kean ball-bearing baren, and added a number of wet Cyanotype sun prints to complete the limited-edition series of artworks.
In contrast, Michael, has used local timbers to produce sculptures, often beginning with large segments of raw wood, looking for patterns and defects while using a chainsaw and Arbortech, until finally discovering the hidden shapes within.
Chisel and sandpaper then finally assist to reveal images of larger-than-life-size leaves, gumnuts and some creatures of the forest. The creations seemed to form gradually in Michael’s mind as he patiently works to reveal the beauty in the grain and colour of the timber.
Whispers in the Forest can be viewed from 18 August until 10 October, with the official opening on Friday, 21 August at 5pm.
