Inspiration: The Victorian High Country is home to many walks of life, with some more welcome than others. The Fallow Deer that run through the hills, forests and grasslands are an addition to the landscape that has become more common. Such majestic creatures will always capture our imaginations and be prized for their beauty and grace all over the world. Though not native to Australia, they have become a sought after sight in the mountains for those trekking deep into the Bush to sleep under the stars.

Artworks by Maegan Oberhardt highlight many species of wildlife native to Australia. This piece forms part of a collection of artwork that expands environments, composition, and the use of compatible media within the piece. The primary connection within her art is in the technique. It is man-made fire burning paper (which is a by-product of trees). This comments on the conflict between man and nature. The result of that conflict is that most wild species are directly impacted by man’s carbon footprint.

This series has used heat, carbon and soot to achieve the variety of charcoal greys present in the finished artwork.