Natural Oddity Brings Smiles & Melts Hearts

Artspace Mackay’s latest exhibition Tom Moore: Natural Oddity received huge acclaim from visitors this week.

As the exhibition drew to a close, competition winners were announced for the Natural Oddity drawing competition and winning designs were transformed into one-of-a-kind sculptures.

The work on display was that of Tom Moore, a glass artist who creates characters that blur the boundaries between lifeforms; fairytale, abstract, colourful figures designed to “defy gravity and to melt the coldest heart”.

Working in collaboration with photographers, animators, and his wife Rosie, Tom creates elaborate scenes akin to dreamscape dioramas, presenting playful and unsettling reflections on nature and technology.  

The exhibition challenged attendees to partake in a drawing competition, with winning drawings set to be turned into glass sculptures themselves, for the participants to keep and treasure. With junior, senior and open divisions, the competition attracted thousands of entries from across the region.

“It is truly one of the most impressive exhibitions I’ve seen,” said Mayor Greg Williamson.

“Congratulations to Ivy, who was announced as the Junior Division winner. It’s fantastic to see young creative talent in our region being recognised and celebrated.”


1 – Mayor Greg Williamson with winner of the Junior drawing competition, Ivy Wong and her family. Photo supplied

2 – Tom Moore turned Ivy’s design into a wonderful sculpture for her to cherish. Photo supplied