On learning about Walter Hill, the first and most significant curator of the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens (1855-1881), I was inspired to create a series of editioned paper and textile-based works to bring awareness to his extensive contribution to Queensland’s agricultural history.

Rather than develop work that was a linear and biographical commentary on Walter Hill’s life, I decided to focus on what he loved most – the plants, and what I enjoy most – making patterns.

Walter Hill was a fastidious professional who recorded his work in painstaking detail and reviewing his annual reports and collection documents was invaluable in determining the overall visual aesthetic for the series.

I researched antique botanical illustrations and selected plants based on their form, their potential for patternmaking and their artistic merits.

To make a physical connection back to the period in which Walter Hill lived, I created letterpress prints using a Heidelberg ‘Windmill’ Letterpress – a style of press that was used during Hill’s time. I like to develop multiple layers of meaning and depth within a project, taking the work beyond the purely aesthetic.

Meticulous choices in medium, materials, technical expertise and designs have sought a timeless, refined aesthetic in the artwork that is reflective of Walter Hill’s dedication.

Walter Hill planted an avenue of majestic Bunya pines in the Gardens, which still stands today. This miniature series of letterpress prints is dedicated to his love of the indigenous Bunya Bunya.

Collected Patterns: the Botany of Walter Hill was first exhibited at Myrtle Street Studio, Brisbane, Australia. Editioned works are available in the store.