Canberra-based artists Peter McLean and Sharon Peoples – a printmaker and embroiderer, respectively – were artists in residence at the Old School in Mt Wilson in the Blue Mountains – McLean in 2024 and Peoples in 2023.
With a shared interest in nature and gardening, both artists immersed themselves in the lush environment, its beauty, diversity and tranquillity, recording their impressions in print, drawing and machine embroidery. They did so independently, yet while perceiving and hinting at the unseen hand of a spirit-like figure – the gardener.

Sharon Peoples, Waterfall Creek Gardener (detail), 2024, machine embroidered lace. Courtesy the artist and Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Australian Capital Territory
Tuggeranong Arts Centre
11 April to 7 June 2025
Australian Capital Territory