Botanica Exhibition

Botanica: The Art of Disguise and Deception is an invitation to unmask the hidden aspects of the natural world. What does nature's masquerade ball look like? 

Curators Alissa Cook and Katharine Rogers, with the support of Judy Dunstan, invite you to consider how charade, pageantry, and mimicry feature in the botanical world. Expect to see an array of stunning depictions of mimicry and deception, including the Tiger Orchid, which fools male wasps into spreading its pollen; the blue-spotted sun orchid, which grows near the native iris, stealing their pollinators away; or the Venus fly trap, which clamps its jaw-like structure over unsuspecting insects. More than just an art exhibition, Botanica is a celebration of conservation and creativity. 

Botanica is dedicated to supporting talented artists while raising essential funds for the Foundation & Friends of the Botanic Gardens.

Explore the hidden world of Botanica. All works for sale.

Applications for Botanica 2025 are now closed.

*Due to the public holiday on Monday 21 April, opening hours of exhibition will be 10am – 1pm.

Banner artwork: Sunshine Blues by Judy Morris