Arts ambassador Leon Pericles puts up personal work for Nature Conservation Margaret River Region auction

Arts icon Leon Pericles is offering nature lovers a rare chance to acquire one of his prized works. The Nature Conservation Margaret River Region ambassador has put one of his pieces up for auction to help fundraise for the environmental group with bids closing November 8. “I’m personally connected to the cause as I’ve loved nature and gardens my whole life,” Pericles told the Times. “At eight years old, I had my own garden and began learning from it, seeing the importance of growing native plants to support the local ecosystem of insects, birds and wildlife. “We’re fortunate to live in a beautiful corner of the globe and it’s essential we protect it.” The framed artwork is a watercolour with line work and includes historical postage stamps. Pericles described the work as a love letter to conservation efforts for the Margaret River region with the finished piece featuring the names of local identities. The online auction was welcomed by Nature Conservation general manager Drew McKenzie. “We think it’ll look amazing at a private residence or better yet on display at a local business or winery,” he said. Pericles crafted the work during the recent Margaret River Region Open Studios festival. An optional plaque was also offered to state the artwork was bought to help protect and conserve the region’s natural environment. To lodge a bid, contact special projects officer Jodie Passmore at jodie.passmore@natureconservation.org.au.