Join us for A Natural Escape event in collaboration with the Tasmanian Land Conservancy to experience Sloping Main Reserve through the artists eye with Mel Hills.

This event offers a unique opportunity to walk and paint the saltmarsh of Sloping Main Reserve on the Tasman Peninsula. Designed specifically for artists of any skill to immerse themselves in the landscape, while under the guidance artist Mel Hills and supporting TLC ecologist to gain greater understanding of the reserve and it's natural values.

ABOUT THE ARTIST
Growing up on the spectacular East Coast of Tasmania, Mel developed a fascination for all forms of wildlife, and an obsessive interest in birds.

Led by her fascination with wildlife, Mel studied Zoology at the University of Tasmania, followed by a Graduate Diploma in Wildlife and Scientific Illustration from the University of Newcastle.

For Mel, there is no boundary between the two disciplines of art and science as both require observation, analysis and experimentation. Love for the natural world shines through Mel’s work, irrespective of the medium, subject or location.

ABOUT THE RESERVE

Sloping Main Reserve contains a beautiful saltmarsh wetland that has recently been restored to reinstate the natural hydrology of the marsh. Providing habitat for a variety of birds, unique flora and interesting colour changes throughout the seasons, the marsh opens onto the white sands of Sloping Main Beach and when inundated by tidal seawater provides spectacular reflections of the sky and surrounds.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Your ticket price goes towards the costs of holding this event. We thank you for your support of TLC and Mel Hills. A minimum attendance of 10 people is require for the event to be held - confirmation will be sent 1 week prior to the event.

Please arrive at 10am for a 10:30am start. We will provide a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits on arrival. Please inform us if you have any allergies.

Housekeeping:

The walk will be approximately 2km on flat but undulating terrain. Uneven, wet, slippery, and muddy surfaces may be encountered.
We will stop at intervals to capture the landscape and features where our ecologist will share information about the flora and fauna of the area and the incredible saltmarsh wetland.
In the case of bad weather or excessive risk of fire, the event will be cancelled and money refunded.
No refunds are possible within one week of the event date. Final confirmation of the event will be one week before the event date.

What to bring:

Bring wet weather clothing, warm layers and sturdy boots. Bring walking poles and a portable seat if needed. Please ensure all boots are clean before your arrival.
Bring your own preferred drawing and painting materials and sketchbooks. Cameras, magnifying lens and binoculars may also be helpful.
An art kit is available for pre-order for $15 per person (includes A5 sketch book, 2B pencil, watercolour paints & brush). Please indicate at checkout if wish to order this kit and be sure to bring cash with you on the day to purchase.
A sit pad, portable seat or picnic blanket if you wish to sit when we stop to observe the landscape.
BYO lunch, snacks and drinks. The event concludes at 1:30pm, if you wish to enjoy your lunch at Sloping Main there are public picnic facilities and toilets at the southern end of the beach.

Banner image: Mel Hills

We acknowledge the Tasmanian Aboriginal people as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work, and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture.
We often take photographs at events and we use these in TLC publications. If you do not want your photo taken, please let us know; otherwise, we will assume we may use photographs that include you.