Bev Lewis makes works on paper presenting the natural world in novel and contemporary ways. I want to encourage the viewer to observe closely and wonder at nature and to consider its vulnerability.
I am inspired by nature, most often while walking because the pace encourages close observations, random meanderings and discovery of details not otherwise obvious. I am particularly attracted to unusual or significant plants and to end-of-life, such as spent seed pods. I work on life-sized and scaled depictions to show seldom observed aspects of nature, many of which are not commonly illustrated.
The simplicity of mark making with pencil (a most basic medium between subject and artwork) is particularly sensuous on paper and on lithographic stone. The product is only black and shades of grey but captures beauty, complexity, resilience and vulnerability.

Stone lithography, a charming medium, demands dedication and patience. The printing stage can delight or despair; hence the reliance on expert printing. All prints were created in collaboration with master lithographer, Keith Wiltshire, at his atelier Equinox Printmaking in Chewton Victoria.
Planning, drafting and executing the art works rely on frequent forays to inspect nature in situ and studying collected materials. Planning and research is as enjoyable as the product.
I have been working mainly in graphite pencil. Since 2019, with retirement from full time work and a move from Melbourne to Castlemaine, I have more time to dedicate to art. That encouraged me to navigate the quirks, challenges and allure of stone lithograph.
I am largely self-taught but benefitted enormously from tuition in classes at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.