Photography, art, heritage, conservation and animal lovers will have the rare opportunity to see an exhibition of the works of Matthew Willman throughout March at Retford Park.
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Willman is one of South Africa's leading, young, independent artists in visual communication and heritage art.
He has expressed himself through an extraordinary body of work which includes writing, storytelling and photographic exhibitions across 48 countries, tailoring his inventive brand of communication to the needs of an array of clients which have included: Oxfam International, The World Health Organisation, The Nelson Mandela Foundation, The Bill Clinton Presidential Library, The Vodafone Foundation, The National Underground Railroad Freedom Centre, Robben Island Museum and The European Commission.
The National Trust (NSW) has partnered with Willman to provide space for a photographic exhibition of the artist's works that creates awareness of the fight against poaching, and the need to rescue and rehabilitate injured and orphaned rhinos that have survived poaching or drought-related incidents.
The exhibition concept has been guided by Nelson Mandela's philosophy that: "Education is the key to success, and without awareness and education we would not be able to successfully do what we do tosave this endangered species."
"Conservation and leadership go hand in hand. By their very nature, each aims to preserve the future for positive growth and development. None of us can do great things, only small things with great love," Matthew Willman said.
"This exhibition 'It's in our hands', is a testimony to two of Africa's greatest legacies and heritage."
The exhibition comprises 50 works by Matthew Willman, on show in the Retford Park house that was the former residence of James Fairfax AC - who believed so strongly in the power of art and philanthropy to change the world.
The National Trust's event program comprises house and garden tours, intimate dinners, a documentary screening and photographic workshops with Matthew Willman.
"The National Trust is committed to protecting and conserving the irreplaceable beauty of our natural environment and the unique flora and fauna of Australia," CEO of the National Trust Debbie Mills said.
"We are proud to give a voice and space to conservation efforts from across the world who share our purpose in protecting places of significance - for people and animals.
"The message of this exhibition is particularly poignant in light of our recent season of bushfires and the catastrophic loss to the natural landscape and our koala population in Australia.
"The National Trust is advocating strongly on climate change and the protection of our natural landscapes and habitats."
The exhibition 'It's In Our Hands to Make a Difference' will be on show at Retford Park in Bowral from March 7 until March 29 2020. Further details are available on the National Trust website https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/event/its-in-our-hands-to-make-a-difference/
