‘Oysters and Sustainability: From Harvest to Market’ Exhibition With Artist Louise Marson
| Detail: | Every Market Day, 9am - 3pm, Queen's Food Hall |
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This new exhibition explores the fascinating journey of oysters from harvest to plate, while uncovering the profound history of Melbourne’s forgotten oyster reefs. This unique installation features ten sculptural panels crafted from repurposed oyster shells from the Market. Five panels showcase Melbourne’s typography, with the Birrarung (Yarra River) flowing through the artwork.
The exhibition reveals how oysters transformed from a plentiful protein source during colonial times to a luxury delicacy during the gold rush. It also highlights how discarded shells were once burned to create lime for cement—building Melbourne’s early architecture. Through this artistic reclamation, the exhibition serves as a powerful metaphor for resilience and ecological renewal, celebrating both the culinary heritage of oysters and the importance of restoring these vital ecosystems.
Look for the abstract representation of Bunjil, the Creator Spirit in Wurundjeri Dreaming, which will be incorporated into this thought-provoking work.
Find out more about Artist Louise Marson
