Wonderscope: Clare James

Clare James’ Wonderscope is a playful wonderland the whole family will enjoy. This interactive exhibition encourages us to unearth and explore the magic of the natural world.

I try to take notice of intricacies in nature, discovering worlds within worlds, of ecologies in their perfect balance. I look at the world with wonder and try to understand it. – Clare James 

Wonderscope transforms the Museum’s gallery into a wonderland where audiences are invited to explore and marvel at the intricate structures and microscopic ecosystems of the natural world. Drawing inspiration from the unique and breathtaking Yarra Ranges environment to the rockpools and tidal flats of Port Phillip Bay, James’ interactive exhibition encourages us to expand the ways in which we see the world by illustrating the invisible. A visual feast for the senses and curious at heart, James’ work seeks to inspire awe for people of all ages.   

About Clare James

Clare James is a multidisciplinary artist, gardener and educator who lives and works on Wurundjeri Country in the Yarra Valley. James’ paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and floristry investigate the complex ecological relationship between humans and the environment. Her practice weaves together her deep appreciation and understanding of nature with magical realism to create immersive and inspiring artworks and experiences.  

James runs creative workshops for children and communities and is the author and illustrator of TarraWarra Museum of Art’s award-winning Field Guides: Making Paint & Ink and Making Things with What You Find. Her works have been exhibited nationally and internationally, and most recently at the 2023 Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show. James has been featured on The Design Files, Wonderground and ABC’s Gardening Australia.  

Artist Talk 

Join us for an artist talk with Yarra Ranges based artists Clare James and Toshi Singh, they will discuss the inspiration behind the works on display in their exhibitions Wonderscope and The Everyday.

Sat 11 Nov, 2.00pm – 3.00pm 

Free, bookings required.

Art Cart: Bugs and Slugs 

During your visit enjoy our FREE drop-in kids activity at the Art Cart. 

Recommended for children 6-16 years old.

Wed – Sun, 12pm – 4pm. 

About Yarra Ranges Regional Museum

Opened in 2011, Yarra Ranges Regional Museum promotes a greater understanding of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Yarra Ranges region through exhibitions, collections and programs.

The Museum is custodian of a collection of over 13,000 cultural objects, including Indigenous belongings related to Coranderrk Aboriginal Station and a sub-collection related to opera diva Dame Nellie Melba (1861-1931).