Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery Update #3

Something quite extraordinary is occurring at the Wilderness Gallery. Over the last few months as the gallery has evolved we have seen a wonderful coming together of business, hospitality, tourism and the arts, along with a healthy dose of local community support and good will. This venture has been testament to the immense talent and diversity of artists in Tasmania and the willingness for tourism operators to be open to new ideas. It has been a massive few months and as we head toward the finale, with the opening of the Tiger Room, there is no sign of slowing down.

This week we have Phillip England, a new artist in resident beginning his two week residency. Phillip uses a unique Tintype process to produce dark, evocative and beautiful photographs that are printed directly onto tin. He plans to venture into the Cradle Mountain bush with his 100 year old camera, while continuing his fascination for the face; offering portraits to visitors and staff as well as artist talks.

The process for this type of photography involves the sitter or subject to be still for up to 20 minutes. The long exposure photography requires patience from both the photographer and the sitter. The effect is worth the wait. Within an hour the photograph is ready and the inkiness and darkness has the ability to make everyone look good.

Meanwhile, while Phillip is preparing his portable dark room and pulling on his hiking boots, a team of enthusiastic and strong men are gathering in Hobart to move the post-colonial display cabinet that will be home to an extraordinary Thylacine exhibit in the gallery. With the imminent arrival, preparation is underway in The Tiger Room and the excitement is building. 

Kylie Eastley

Curator - Cradle Mountain Wilderness Gallery