8 AM 6425/09
Mick Quilliam Grasstree Flower Spike 2009
Acrylic on cotton 600 x 1830mm $6000

The Grasstree is a unique form featured throughout the Australian landscape and an exceptionally useful plant
throughout Aboriginal Culture.

The plant provides edible starch, shoots and sweet beads of nectar. Flower spikes can be used as fire sticks and
the gum/resin can be used a glue. Honeyeaters and other pollinating birds are easily lured to the flower of the
Grasstree.

For me, the Grasstree represents freshness within the landscape, a new start, the beginning of longer days.
Their unmistakable and prominent form throughout the Australian bush represents the empowerment of
individuals within our culture. Their resilient nature after a burning represents the strength of character of our
people.