Upcoming Exhibition | Botanical Connections | Jo Hollier
Where: Australian National Botanic Gardens, Canberra
When: Opens 22 January 2025 – 23 February 2025
Event: Opening event and artist talk (details to be confirmed)
The Australian National Botanic Gardens in Canberra are set to host a visit-worthy exhibition this summer: Botanical Connections by established Canberra artist Jo Hollier. Jo, a founding member of the Mrs. Smith stable of artists, combines a lifelong connection to Australia’s native flora with her passion for the natural environment.
Jo’s relationship with the Botanic Gardens is deeply personal, stretching back to childhood visits with her family. Her father, a research scientist with the CSIRO, often brought the family to the Gardens in their early years, when the red gravel paths wound through flourishing plantings that inspired local gardeners. Publications like Growing Native Plants, which originated from the Gardens, sparked a movement to incorporate native flora into home gardens—something Jo continues to embrace.
Over the years, Jo has witnessed the Gardens grow into a hub for research, education, and recreation. For her, the Gardens are more than just a space; they are a living tribute to Australia’s botanical heritage and a reminder of the powerful connections we share with the natural world.
Through Botanical Connections, Jo captures the spirit of the Gardens with vibrant, layered compositions that evoke the joy of stepping into this iconic space. Her work focuses on the plants and the avian visitors often seen along the concourse, inviting viewers to see the Gardens through her unique artistic lens. Richly textured and brimming with detail, Jo’s art explores the intricate web of botany, science, and tradition that unites us all.
This is an exhibition not to be missed—an opportunity to experience the Australian National Botanic Gardens through the eyes of an artist whose connection to this space is as deep as her love of nature itself.
Explore Jo’s Work with Mrs. Smith
We’re proud to collaborate with Jo Hollier to bring her art to life beyond the gallery walls. Jo’s beautifully designed cards and her 2025 calendar, featuring highlights from her collection, are available now in the Mrs. Smith shop. These pieces make perfect gifts or timeless keepsakes for anyone who loves art and nature.
(Left) - Jo Hollier, Banksia Integrifolia with leaf detail, (Center) Jo Hollier, Gang Gang, 2025, (Right) - Jo Hollier, Banksia Baxteri, 2025, (40×60cm).
Jo Hollier, Sawtooth Banksia and a Yellow Tailed Black, 2025, (78 × 50cm).
Save the Date! Botanical Connections opens on 22 January 2025 and runs until 23 February 2025. Stay tuned for details about the opening event and artist talk, where Jo will share insights into her creative process and inspirations.
Let’s celebrate this extraordinary artist and her remarkable contributions to Australian art and nature.