2020 marks the 250th anniversary of Captain Cook’s arrival on the east coast of Australia. The Embassy of Australia in Washington DC is proud to support Beauty Rich and Rare, which recreates the wonder experienced by Sir Joseph Banks and the botanists, scientists, and illustrators who traveled on the historic HMB Endeavour voyage from England to Australia in 1770 – a voyage that changed the course of history.
Beauty Rich and Rare was commissioned by the National Library of Australia and created and produced by AGB Events.
Illuminating the natural beauty of Australia, this immersive digital exhibition reimagines the drawings and illustrations created by the artists who travelled with Banks on board the HMB Endeavour .
A number of the specimens that Banks collected on this voyage are held in the Smithsonian National Herbarium. This will be the first time these specimens have been on public display, including the Banksia integrifolia collected and named by Banks at Botany Bay.
Joe Hockey, Australia’s Ambassador to the United States, commented: “Inspired by documents held in the National Library of Australia, this immersive digital exhibition will provide a unique opportunity to experience Australia’s beautiful and diverse environment.”
Beauty Rich and Rare will introduce millions of Americans to Australia’s rich and rare flora and fauna. The Embassy of Australia is proud to showcase the creative talents of AGB Events, and honored to partner with The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington DC. Located on the National Mall, this world leading institution will host, for the first time a major Australian exhibit. The exhibition will be on show from January – July 2020.
