Presenting her first solo exhibition since 2019, Kat Macleod‘s new collection of mixed media artworks on canvas explore the wonder of trees and the spirits that might inhabit them.

About her ongoing interest in the connection between humans and the natural world Kat says: “I was compelled to further explore these feelings of reverence toward our natural world. I looked at mighty trees and curious plants that dwarf us as humans. As I sketched and painted, I began introducing the human form into my artworks and pondered folklore theories about guardians or goddesses of trees.”

Ancient Greek Mythology described tree dwelling beings as Dryads, known for their unique ability to evoke deep emotions such as joy, sadness and awe in those who gazed upon their homes. Historically they’ve been depicted as women that inhabit trees, groves and forests, and serve as a Dryad’s life-force. When a tree is destroyed, the Dryad also ceases to live.

Working with watercolour on canvas, Kat captures the ethereal energy of these nymphs allowing colour and form to bleed and blend. Trees are formed with a mixture of intricate stitching paired with dynamic foliage forms in watercolour.

Kat Macleod is a Melbourne-based illustrator, designer and artist, with over two decades experience working on client projects, commissions, exhibitions and books. Her signature line work and collaged textures feature in everything she creates. She is endlessly inspired by nature, fashion and the drawings of her three young boys.

Kat has released a series of children’s picture books: The Tiny Explorers, The Tiny Tailors and The Tiny Gardeners. Set in a lush garden, Kat’s cast of characters work and play, and we experience the world from their diminutive perspective, feeling the wonder and scale of each ordinary leaf, berry and giant blade of grass.