This was a trip I should have done years ago - a trip that all Australians should do. 

I travelled up north with Margot Turner; and Karen Swaffer (glass jewellery designer). The first four days of our trip were spent at Yuendemu - a community north west of Alice - accessible by the unsealed Tanami Track. The bush bus was an experience all in itself - the art centre "Warlukurlangu" is run by a small and dedicated group of women - who support and develop the artists; as well as giving them a calm place to paint. Famous Yuendemu artist, Shorty, paints everyday from the art centre... a character of a man.

From 9am to 6pm we spent our time mixing paints, priming canvasses; and generally getting a better understanding of the Warlpiri people and their stories.

From there we headed back down to Alice to meet up with artist Jane Canfield; and our guide and Indigenous artist, Vincent Forrester.

I'm sure many of us remember that little saying, "Wattle, wattle.. stick it in a bottle......" it's not all that silly. I just adore fresh flowers in my home - they make me feel spoilt, special and indulgent; but sometimes for us busy bees, it's difficult to buy fresh every week....... just walking along the lake near my home (50 metres) are the most beautiful assortment of vase/jar, or indeed bottle appropriate specimens to perk up any home; or any one...

A branch with lichen was my found treat... perfectly formed, weathered, with the fungus lichen growing on it in a soft olive green - and in a vase or bottle in the middle of the diningroom table; lamp table; or entrance hall - it adds height, an organic elegance; and I don't have to stress about changing old water or dead petals..... long live lichen.