A wreath-making workshop hosted by Blak Botanics, an Indigenous led floristry business that celebrates native flora and its cultural significance, was held in Meanjin at the weekend.
The workshop was hosted at Aboriginal Art Co. and led by Yuwi woman and Blak Botanics founder, Ms McDonald-Dowd.
It went beyond flower arranging, inviting participants to explore storytelling through their creations.
"Today is about wreath-making," Ms McDonald-Dowd said.
"But it's also about how you can tell stories through using flowers.
"By the end of the workshop, you choose a certain colour, a pattern, or a texture because it tells you a story."
The event was more than just a creative exercise; it was an opportunity to connect with the land and learn about the natural beauty of Australia.
Participants were encouraged to reflect on their relationship with native flora while creating their wreaths.
Blak Botanics, founded in 2022, combines Ms McDonald-Dowd's passion for floristry with her deep cultural knowledge.
After working in the arts industry for more than 30 years, she decided to pursue a Certificate III in Floristry at 49 years of age, marking a new chapter in her career.
"What inspired me to start Blak Botanics, was just getting to learn and understand a little bit more about my country and the beauty of it, that we take for granted every single day," she said.
The business operates sustainably and collaborates with others to share the stories embedded in Australia's diverse plant life.
Whether through bouquets, installations or events such as the workshop, Blak Botanics seeks to bridge cultural understanding and respect for the environment.
Ms McDonald-Dowd's connection to nature is deeply rooted in her upbringing.
"I grew up on country and I grew up learning all about our place—our creeks, our streams, our flowers, our trees," she said.
"You lose that, so it's really important to keep sharing that."
For Ms McDonald-Dowd, the workshop was also about encouraging others to consider their role in caring for Country.
"We all talk about caring for country, but do we really understand it?" she said.
"I hope that when people walk out of this workshop, they're happy—because I know that I'm happy when I'm on country."
Blak Botanics continues to offer unique opportunities for people to engage with nature and culture.
Through events such as the workshop, Ms McDonald-Dowd aims to ensure that the beauty and significance of native flora are appreciated, understood and preserved.
Participants left the workshop with their wreaths, taking with them a deeper appreciation for the land and the stories it holds.
