The University of New England’s vital role in researching and teaching about biodiversity in north-eastern NSW will be illustrated in an exhibition marking the International Year of Biodiversity.

“Woodlands: Understanding the biodiversity of woodlands through science and art”, opens at The Woodland Centre, Armidale Tree Group, at 6 pm on Saturday 30 October.

The exhibition looks at different aspects of woodlands through the eyes of both scientists and artists. Featuring works by eight prominent local artists, and specimens from UNE’s N.C.W. Beadle Herbarium and Zoology Museum, it highlights the beauty, diversity and fragility of New England’s woodlands.

“Both the Herbarium and the Zoology Museum at UNE are critical in discovering, researching and teaching about one of the most biodiverse regions of Australia,” said Associate Professor Jeremy Bruhl, the Director of the Beadle Herbarium. “Selected specimens – including recently discovered, rare and as yet unnamed species – will be on display.”

Artists exhibiting their works include Kerry Wilson, Fay Porter, David Allan, Andrew Parker, Mick Jarochowicz, Marty Branagan, Arthur Chaffey and Bob Roden. All works will be for sale.

The opening event on Saturday evening will see the local launch of a new environmental arts organisation, Eco Arts Australis, which aims to foster public engagement with biodiversity, climate change and environmental sustainability through the arts. Dr David Curtis, who is well known in New England for his work as an environmentalist, will launch Eco Arts Australis, and the event will also feature the local group Trelos Lantana performing odes to the wonders of woodlands and environmentally-friendly household cleaning products.

This year – 2010 – was declared the International Year of Biodiversity by the United Nations. The International Year of Biodiversity and UNE have provided funding for the “Woodlands” exhibition, and the exhibition is being presented by the Armidale Tree Group, UNE, and Eco Arts Australis. It will continue at the Tree Group’s Woodland Centre in Mann Street, Armidale, until the 6th of December.