THE magnificence and sheer beauty of the Daintree rainforest has been brilliantly captured by local artists in a book entitled Inspired, Flora of Queensland’s Wet Tropics, which will be launched by DAB on Friday 16 September at 6:30pm at 11 Mill Street, Mossman, opposite the Mossman Library.

Douglas Arts Studio Gallery Inc., in collaboration with Mossman Botanic Garden and Australia Council for the Arts, have produced what is being called a record of those who have been inspired by the forest, and who are actively interpreting what they sense, into a visual memory for anyone visiting this part of the world.

Liz Showniruk, President of the Douglas Arts Studio Gallery Inc., says the launch of this book allows us to promote a part of the world by people who are truly inspired.

“As we watch the Mossman Botanic Garden grow and develop from seedling to giant, so too will Douglas Art Studio and its botanical artists.

“These two organisations have a future together that will promote and enhance the interpretation of the Wet Tropics. This book is the first step,” she says.

She said the book is offered by hardworking individuals who dedicate their time and resources to the preservation of the forest and in doing so, become a reminder to us all that with care and consideration, the forest can remain long into the future.

The artwork in the book has been created by locals inspired to paint flora in all its glory. Each artist has carefully selected the specimens which have inspired them, either by the call of natural beauty, or the desire to understand the habits of the plant in an intricate and detailed way.

Mossman Botanic Garden Inc., although not yet actualised, is a growing endeavour powered by local horticulturists, botanists and enthusiasts whose passion for the tropical rainforest will eventuate in the creation of a stunning tourist attraction and a tribute to tropical rainforest worldwide.

The book is edited by Liz Showniruk, Inger Rowe and Ellen Terrell and published by Douglas Arts Studio Gallery Inc. It is priced at $25.

For more information visit  www.dabmossman.com.