Emu artwork on display at Frankston Arts Centre’s Cube 37

Published on 16 August 2022

A self-described ‘bowerbird’, Louise Grant loves nothing more than recycling, repurposing, collecting and creating.

Louise drew on all her artistic creativity to produce ‘Steve the Emu’, her eye-catching entry in this year’s Frankston Arts Centre Open Exhibition Competition, which has the theme ‘belonging’.

She named her artwork after renowned wildlife warrior Steve Irwin, adding: “Emus would have to be one of my favourite Australian birds – they have a character of their own.

“My ‘Steve’ was born out of my love for the Australian Landscape, its flora and fauna and with this my passion for recycling.

“Steve represents Australian flora and fauna. I have literally melded the two together. Incorporating recycled wire, metal and a collection of native grasses and vines. He came to life in my studio.”

A qualified gardener, Louise has always had a passion for the outdoors and plants. This led her to basket making and she joined Basketmakers of Victoria about two decades ago. 

The Frankston Arts Centre Open Exhibition Competition Prize 2022 was won by Cebby Johnson for his joyous photographic self-portrait, ‘Ceb and Early’. Artworks entered for the Competition are now on display at Frankston Arts Centre’s Cube 37 Gallery until Thursday 25 August.

Most of the artworks are for sale and enquiries regarding purchases can be made to Milla Dakovic via email at milla.dakovic@frankston.vic.gov.au