Jane Coy’s painting ‘Crown of Thorns’.
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The Benalla Art Gallery is set to take visitors on a visit to the Great Ocean Road this month with a selection of works by local artist Jane Coy.
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Titled Mysteries of the Great Ocean Road, the exhibition features a series of prints based on her watercolour paintings inspired by the dramatic landscapes and wildlife.
The display also includes handcrafted wildlife dioramas reflecting the region’s unique natural environment.
Jane, who was born and educated in New Zealand before moving to Australia in 1965, has maintained a lifelong interest in art despite having no formal training.
Her practice has been shaped by observation and a sustained curiosity about the natural world.
In the 1990s, Jane spent two years on the southern coast working alongside the late wildlife artist and whale watcher Robert Ulmann.
This provided invaluable experience in watercolour, a medium that has remained her greatest passion, and deepened her connection to marine life and all aspects of nature.
Alongside painting, Jane continues to work with materials such as wire and wood, incorporating hand-built elements into her artistic practice.
'Fairy Penguin, found dead at Peterborough', 1993.
Benalla Art Gallery director Eric Nash said it was a privilege to share this “richly observed body of work” with the community.
“This exhibition is a beautiful testament to a lifelong commitment to looking closely at the natural world,” he said.
“Through her watercolours, prints and handcrafted dioramas, Jane captures the drama and quiet wonder of the Great Ocean Road with sensitivity and care.
“Her work reflects not only a deep affection for marine life and landscape, but a creative practice shaped by curiosity, resilience and decades of hands-on making.”
The exhibition will run from May 1 to 31 at a pop-up gallery space at 75 Bridge Street East, Benalla.
Opening hours are 10am to 4.30pm, with the gallery closed on Tuesdays.
All works will be available for purchase through the gallery.
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