Contemplate the intersection of art and science at the Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize, now showing at National Archives of Australia.

This unique exhibition brings together artists from different disciplines as they turn their focus to the natural world.

Acting Director-General Brooke Anderson says National Archives is proud to once again partner with the South Australian Museum to exhibit a range of thought-provoking works.

'We are thrilled to bring this amazing exhibition back to National Archives. From textile works to sculptures to paintings, the diverse array of works on display are a fascinating look at the ongoing dialogue between art and science.

'This exhibition is the only opportunity to view these incredible artworks outside of South Australia.'

David Gaimster, Chief Executive Officer of the South Australian Museum, said the prize has been highlighting the interplay between scientific research and creative arts for over 20 years.

'Art can turn complex ideas and systems into moving experiences and give us new vocabularies to have the most important conversations of our time,' said Mr Gaimster.

'Since 2003, the Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize has provided an important contemporary platform for creatives and practitioners across the art world to reflect on and respond to the natural world, biodiversity, and humanity's impact.'

Jenna Lee, Gulumerridjin (Larrakia), Wardaman and KarraJarri Saltwater artist, was awarded this year's Open Prize. Her work Grass tree – Growing together reclaims the pages of a flawed, decades-old dictionary of 'Aboriginal words and place names' and transforms them into striking paper sculptures of grass trees, resilient native plants which thrive after bushfire.

Andrew Gall, Pakana artist, wins this year's Emerging Prize for his work Coming Together, featuring 3D-printed porcelain shells strung into a traditional kanalaritja shell necklace, speaking to the resilience of culture in the face of colonisation and climate change.

Visitors can engage deeply with the works by attending a free object talk at 11 am each day.

The Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize is on display at National Archives of Australia until 27 October 2024.

More information can be found at: Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize | naa.gov.au

High-resolution images are available.