Dried Flower arrangement – Wrens by Felicity Pasztaleniec.
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The Benalla Art Gallery is showcasing a selection of dried flower and foliage wall hangings, bespoke wreaths and floral features in its latest gallery shop exhibition, throughout March and April.
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Felicity Pasztaleniec’s art focusses on Australian native plants, with all items prioritising environmental consciousness by using materials that are reusable, recyclable, or compostable.
Felicity is the heart and soul behind Everlasting Floral Studio, and a passionate creator dedicated to Australian native flora.
She exclusively uses flowers and foliage sourced from her native ‘bush’ garden and farm in Upper Lurg, which she naturally dries in her studio.
The essence of Everlasting Floral Studio is deeply connected to the beauty of everlasting daisies, which hold a special place in Felicity’s heart.
Dried Flower arrangement by Felicity Pasztaleniec.
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She said this inspiration emerged following the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Eve, who was stillborn in April 2020.
During that challenging time, flowers—especially the ‘EVE’rlasting daisies—brought Felicity a sense of comfort and healing.
Her creations are a blend of dried flowers and foliage, primarily native species such as eucalyptus, gum nuts, hakea, wattle, bracken, kangaroo paw, native grasses, billy buttons, banksia, bottlebrush, tea tree, and of course, Eve’s everlasting daisies.
Each piece is crafted with love and care, infused with the restorative power of nature.
Through her arrangements, Felicity strives to share stories of strength, resilience, and beauty, with the hope of bringing joy into the lives of others.
“Having my work featured in the Benalla Art Gallery Shop is an incredibly special milestone.” Felicity said.
“It’s more than just an opportunity to share my dried floral creations—it’s a reflection of my deep connection to nature and the meaning that flowers hold.
Dried Flower Panel by Felicity Pasztaleniec.
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“To see them find a place within the gallery, where others can experience their beauty and meaning, is both humbling and rewarding.”
Benalla Art Gallery Director, Eric Nash, said the exhibition evidences the depth and variety of talent in the region.
“Felicity is to be commended not only on her technical capacity—producing beautiful works with what could be considered an unconventional medium—but also for the depth of meaning that underpins their creation,” he said.
All works in the Gallery Shop are available for purchase from Benalla Art Gallery, or by contacting the gallery on 5760 2619 or emailing gallery@benalla.vic.gov.au.
