Visual artist Dr Carolyn Young’s work ‘Inhabiting the Woodlands’ features images from the artist’s ‘Grassy Woodlands series. The book 'Grasslands in Transition' which she collaboratively produced with woodland ecologist Dr Sue McIntyre, which was also launched on the night. Dr McIntyre spoke about Dr Young’s photography and her fascination with our native grasslands. Also commenting on this work, the results from a 10-year collaboration, and brings together the photographs and text on their underpinning ecological theory, was Sarah Ryan from the Capital Region Landkeepers Trust.

In the gallery foyer is and exhibition by Shags titled ‘Action Printing’.  Shags is a Canberra based printmaker who uses performance and projections for installations based on text, colour and audio. She also writes experimental music scores and makes low-fi books and zines. Having dyslexia and synaesthesia means her processing style makes it possible to see the interconnectivity of everyday surroundings, internal and external, abstract and actual. Most of her work is about alternative forms of communication. She understands her environment in non-verbal ways, such as via colour, sensation, noise and tactility. Language is definitely not her first language. Introducing Shags work  to the audience, that was largely drawn from the local and ACT regions, was Canberra Contemporary Art Space Director David Broker.

Also in the main gallery space is ‘ACO Virtual’, a slick new experience to enjoy this round too, so get in and get conducting. ACO Virtual presents the Australian Chamber Orchestra as you have never seen them before. This world-first installation places visitors in the middle of the virtual orchestra where they can conduct, isolate parts and even play along. With music by Grieg, Bach, Smalley and Piazzolla, visitors experience performing music from across the ages with one of the world’s greatest chamber orchestras.

The exhibitions run until October 13. The gallery is open from Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm and Saturday 12pm - 4pm.