Art, science and conservation merge to create a stimulating message to the eye and conscience.

Tuesday 6th May 2008

Bee-line: A rendezvous with the native blue-banded bee is an exhibition of contemporary artworks by two south west artists, Yvonne Nietrzeba and Judith Roche. Whilst continuing individual investigations into the loss of native habitats and land degradation, Yvonne and Judith found common ground in the information they had gathered about bees and decided to develop a joint art exhibition.                                                                    

Their research includes reports that the habitats of some native bees are under threat from land clearing, that the research into the vision system of bees is yielding remarkable results in the field of robotics, and that the opportunity for scientific and medical discoveries could be lost if some species of native bees become extinct before their potential has been documented.                                                                                       

With its focus on the native blue banded bee, Bee-line presents the two artists' individual interpretations of their responses to the research they have carried out and to their experiences during the many hours spent in the field searching for and photographing these intriguing creatures. Their encounters are revealed in divergent forms of photography and painting, and the artists also plan to have available native bee roosts for the public to place in their gardens to encourage visits by blue-banded and other native bees.

Bee-line runs from 9^th May to 2^nd June at ArtGeo Gallery

6 Queen Street Busselton

Gallery hours are 10 am - 4 pm, closed Wednesdays.

Interview and photo opportunity available with the artists on request.

Media enquiries can be directed to the Shire's Public Relations Officer, Helena Webb on 97810446 or helena.webb@busselton.wa.gov.au