Enjoy the amazing shapes, colours and patterns of Banksias through this mixed introductory media class with Canberra based artist, Alison Oberg. Alison loves observing nature, and using mixed media to build an image that expresses her creatively and enthusiasm for natural beauty. She is an enthusiastic teacher who loves to share her knowledge with her students so they can create more art!

• Dates: 1 August 2026
• Day/Time: Saturday, 9.30 – 12.30pm
• Location: NatureArt Lab, M16 Artspace, 21 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith, ACT

Course Description:

In this class we use collage, paint pens and fine liners to develop a piece of art that represents your interpretation of Banksias. Alison will guide the class through a process to explore what you love and build that into your art piece.

This class is for you if you want to have fun and re-energise your creatively in a supportive environment. Alison will use Banksias to demonstrate her creative process to the class. Returning students are welcome adapt the instructions to make a piece of art inspired by their favourite native flower or plant if they prefer.

At the end of the class, you will have explored various mark making techniques, learned how to deconstruct the complex patterns of Banksias to inspire your art, and have made your own A4 collage based on your own interpretation of Banksias (or other native plant).

Note: Alison’s intermediate mixed media class will cover fabric collage and hand stitching, and pattern with paint pens and watercolour. 

Learning Outcomes 

• Knowledge of materials and equipment used with mixed media art, such as collage, paint pens and fine liners.
• Exploration of mark making using different materials and different techniques to create unique patterns and depth in the work.
• Knowledge of art principles such as contrast, design, colour.
• Observation skills of shapes and patterns in a variety of Banksia flowers and leaves, from photos and dried specimens.
• The ability to confidently create from a blank page, trust in your creative choices, and confidently resolve creative challenges using readily available art materials.
  

Level of experience

Suitable for all students, from beginners through to people with an established art practise, as long as you can use scissors and have a sense of wonder about what you can create.

Materials: All materials will be provided and are included in the cost of the course.

About the tutor:
Alison Oberg is a Canberra artist with a love of nature who has a long-established interest in art and creativity. She has a passion for mixed media nature-inspired art and loves teaching art practices that are accessible to everyone. Working in a sketchbook has become an important part of her creative process as a mixed media artist. See Alison's amazing work at: @obergalison

NatureArt Lab Awards

2022, Telstra Best of Business Award Winner for Promoting Sustainability, ACT; and National Finalist Award

2024, Telstra Best of Business Award Winner for Building Communities, ACT; and National Finalist Award

2025, Telstra Best of Business Award Finalist for Promoting Sustainability, ACT; and Finalist for Accelerating Women, ACT

2025, Awards Australia Semi-Finalist for Connecting Communities, NSW and ACT; and Semi-Finalist for Small Business Award NSW and ACT. 

Images by Alison Oberg