NATURAL RHYTHMS

FOTZ Art and Craft Exhibition

The Friends of the Zoos (FOTZ) is conducting an Art and Craft Exhibition at Melbourne Zoo from the 26 September to 1 October 2006. The Exhibition will feature works from prominent wildlife artists such as Janet Matthews and Rodger Scott as well as promoting new emerging talent from within the FOTZ membership.

All work on display will be available for purchase with proceeds donated to the Tenkile Conservation Alliance (TCA) of Papua New Guinea, to save the endangered Scott’s Tree Kangaroo (locally known in PNG as the ‘tenkile’). The tenkile is a source of protein for local villagers in the Torricelli Mountain Range in North West Papua New Guinea. Due to increased population and modern hunting methods the tenkile is now one of the most endangered species in the world. The TCA, which is run by former Zoos Victoria Keepers Jim and Jean Thomas, is working locally with the aid and support of the surrounding villages.  This project is one of Zoos Victoria's priority conservation projects.  Further information on TCA can be obtained at http://www.tenkile.com/index.htm.

Matt West, one of Melbourne Zoo’s keepers, has worked in PNG with the project and will be guest speaker at the opening night of the Art and Craft Exhibition.

The FOTZ Art and Craft Exhibition will be open to the public during normal zoo operating times and will feature paintings, craftwork and photography depicting a wide variety of animals and habitat – from vibrant butterflies and birdlife to majestic big cats. By purchasing a beautiful piece of artwork you will be contributing to the survival of the Scott’s Tree Kangaroo.

FOTZ Membership enquiries can be forwarded to FOTZ, PO Box 161 Parkville, 3052 or call 9285 9325 or become a member online http://www.fotz.org.au/member.htm.

More Information:                 Fiona Anderson                                             

                                                President, FOTZ Art and Craft Exhibition Sub-Committee

                                                c/o FOTZ office: 9285 9325

                                                Lyn Fitzgerald

                                                Secretary, FOTZ Art and Craft Exhibition Sub-Committee

                                                c/o FOTZ office: 9285 9325

Judith Henke               

                                                Communications Manager

                                                Melbourne Zoo

                                                9285 9487