Imagine trading spreadsheets for watercolors, board meetings for solitary hours with nature’s tiny architects. This is the story of Cheryl Hodges, a former business manager turned botanical and insect artist, whose latest solo exhibition, A Charm of Native Bees, is creating a buzz at the Australian National Botanical Garden’s Visitor Centre Gallery in Canberra. Hodges’ journey from the corporate world to the art studio is a testament to the pursuit of passion, and her work now serves not just as an aesthetic delight but as a critical commentary on biodiversity and environmental conservation.
The Artistic Shift: From Numbers to Nature
Cheryl’s artistic odyssey began in 1999, sparked by a one-day class that unveiled her latent passion for the intricate beauty of flora and fauna. Over the years, what started as a hobby evolved into a full-time commitment, leading her to leave her corporate career behind. Today, Hodges dedicates herself entirely to botanical and insect art, a niche that requires an almost scientific precision and a deep appreciation for the minutiae of nature. Her current exhibition showcases between 20 to 25 paintings that not only highlight the diversity of Canberra’s native bees but also underscore the importance of planting native flora to support these crucial pollinators.
Blending Science with Art
The exhibition, A Charm of Native Bees, stands out for its fusion of scientific accuracy and ethereal painting style. Visitors are treated to a visual feast that includes both framed paintings and real bee specimens, providing a comprehensive insight into the lives of these insects beyond their role in pollination. Hodges’ work is a reminder of the often-overlooked diversity among native bees and the critical role they play in our ecosystems. In addition to her visual art, Cheryl is leveraging her 12 years of teaching experience by conducting a one-day adult painting workshop, aiming to inspire and educate others about the beauty and importance of botanical and insect illustration.
A Resurgence of Interest in Botanical Art
Despite the challenges of balancing teaching with her artistic pursuits, Cheryl remains committed to her craft. She notes a significant resurgence in interest in botanical art, a trend she hopes will extend to insect illustration as well. This renewed interest is timely, given the increasing awareness of environmental issues and the importance of biodiversity. Hodges’ exhibition and workshop not only offer a unique aesthetic experience but also serve as an educational platform, highlighting the impact of individual choices, such as planting native flora, on local biodiversity and pollinator populations.
In a world where the buzz of insects is increasingly silenced by urban sprawl and habitat loss, artists like Cheryl Hodges play a crucial role in reminding us of the beauty and importance of nature’s small wonders. Through her art, Hodges invites us to take a closer look at the world around us, to appreciate the intricate details of nature, and to consider the impact of our actions on the environment. A Charm of Native Bees is not just an exhibition; it’s a call to action, a plea for awareness, and a testament to the power of passion and perseverance.
