Rediscover the intricate botanical art of Isobel Bowden, a pioneering conservationist who significantly contributed to raising awareness, appreciation and protection of the unique flora of the World Heritage listed Blue Mountains National Park.
Blue Mountains Botanicals features a selection of watercolours from the extensive collection donated to the Springwood and Mitchell libraries by the Bowden family.
Born in Woodford in 1908, Isobel Bowden spent much of her life in this small historic village, where she developed an abiding interest in local and natural history, bush walking and conservation. Miss Bowden also had a long-standing association with the Woodford Academy, her three brothers having attended the school in the early 1900s, and in the mid 1900s she herself lived and for a time operated a tea and craft shop there
Through this association, Ms Bowden developed a lifelong friendship with the school rector’s daughter Gertrude McManamey, who bequeathed the Woodford Academy to the National Trust in 1979.
Active in the local community, Ms Bowden was a foundation member of the Blue Mountains Flora and Fauna Association and maintained an active membership of the Blue Mountains Conservation Society. In 1985 she was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in recognition of her services.
The Woodford Academy Management Committee extend our sincere gratitude to the Bowden family for their support in presenting Isobel’s botanical artworks and her passion for conservation through this exhibition.
Join exhibition curator Brian Kirkby & local historian Ken Goodlet for the exhibition launch at 1pm on April 16 to rediscover the life and work of this extraordinary woman.
Exhibition dates: April 16, May 21, June 18. Museum entry and exhibition: Adults $6, concession/child (4-16yrs) $4, family $15 (2 adults, 2 children), National Trust members $2. Guided tours $2/person (4+years). Woodford Academy 90-92 Great Western Highway, Woodford (on street parking available on Woodford Ave). Email woodfordacademy@gmail.com for more information.
