Echoes of Silence

Echoes of Silence is an exhibition at the Ironbark Gallery, Strathfield, featuring the stunning and mesmerising work of Amanda Hitchens and Clair Reynolds. I have the incredible honour of opening the show this Thursday 18th June at 6 pm. I have seen some of the incredible works of art, and feel it is important to tell you that this is a show not to be missed. It has books, prints, drawings, fabrics, wreaths, photographs and more.

Many of us have been lucky enough to see Clair and Amanda’s work in group shows, but here, this is something very different. A full show of work created over years at Rookwood Cemetery. You will find in the show great sensitivity and beauty. Indeed showing us that creativity, beautiful aesthetics and stunning craftspersonship is alive and well in the Australian art scene. I urge you to see this show.

I have included the press release bellow. I hope to see you there.

Echoes of Silence: Amanda Hitchens & Clair Reynolds

Strathfield Council is excited to announce the Ironbark Gallery’s upcoming exhibition Echoes of Silence, which will be open to members of the public from 19 June – 10 August 2026. Echoes of Silence is a collection of artworks that has grown from regular visits Amanda Hitchens and Clair Reynolds have taken, exploring and photographing Rookwood Cemetery.

Beyond the gates, time softens. Memories surface, grief lingers quietly, and moments of reflection emerge. Photographs taken by both Amanda and Clair during visits to Rookwood over a three year period have resulted in a diverse body of work utilising various materials such as tracing paper, acrylic, organza, dried grasses and metal.

Created over an extended period, this exhibition offers an intimate perspective on the relationship between people, place and time. Visitors will encounter works that invite contemplation and connections, revealing how nature continues to grow and adapt alongside stories of grief, love and memory.

The exhibition runs from 19 June – 10 August 2026, at the Ironbark Gallery located within the Strathfield Council Library & Innovation Hub, 65 – 67 Rochester Street, Homebush.

More information is available here. https://www.strathfield.nsw.gov.au/Play/Ironbark-Gallery