Green Ribbon- You’re “Welcome Sparrow”

Emily Banwell, an award-winning Ipswich artist, is renowned for her intricate drawings and paintings that capture local wildlife with a whimsical touch. She graduated from the Queensland College of Art in 2009, earning a Bachelor of Fine Art with first class honours and a university medal for academic achievement. 

Beyond her artistic pursuits, Emily is a passionate teacher, nurturing creativity and wellbeing in young learners. Her art practice plays a crucial role in her mental health journey, and she imbues each artwork with a deep personal connection. 

Emily’s fascination lies in local native Australian animals, and her ambition is to use art to foster understanding, reflection, and connection - both with the animal world and within herself.

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As a self-proclaimed bird nerd, I turn to nature for clarity and calm. Birds, like the welcome sparrow, often appear just when I need a lift, reminding me to pause, breathe, and be present. Each work in this series captures that quiet magic, with a green ribbon symbolising 'green time' - nature’s healing rhythm. Birdwatching has become a balm for my mind, offering stillness, hope, and the kind of connection that gently mends the spirit.