​As we approach National Tree Day on 31 July, Bankstown Arts Centre is taking a leaf out of nature’s book with its latest exhibition, ‘Arboreal Narratives’, a celebration of trees. 

The exhibition, which opens this Thursday, has been created in conjunction with the Tree Veneration Society and features paintings, video, projection, sculpture, photography and more. Twelve artists will show their work: two renowned Indigenous artists (Badger Bates and recent Archibald prize winner, Blak Douglas) and 10 from the Tree Veneration Society. 

CBCity Mayor Khal Asfour is fascinated by the exhibition and how it encourages us to look at trees in a different way. 

“Trees are a part of our daily landscape and sometimes we take them for granted. But they are so important to our physical and mental health. This exhibition encourages us to take a moment to appreciate them from another perspective,” Mayor Asfour says. 

Artist and founder of the Tree Veneration Society, Louise Fowler-Smith is excited to share the exhibition through Bankstown Arts Centre.

“Trees have been celebrated since ancient cultures, and still are venerated in many countries. Our ultimate aim is to raise awareness about trees and forests, especially in the days of climate change, and we do it through creativity, through art and the senses,” Louise says.

Bankstown Arts Centre is also hosting a series of other activities during July and August that are linked to the exhibition, including workshops and ‘Jungle Jam’, a day of talks, music and performances that will honour trees.  

“This is more than just an exhibition. Over the course of it, there will be many opportunities for the community to engage with it and with trees,” Louise says. 

Louise’s own works will highlight local trees: the impressive stand of figs at the back of Bankstown Arts Centre and the baobab tree in Bankstown City Park. 

The exhibition runs from 16 July-27 August.

More information at cb.city/BACNarratives