Pineapple Grass - Original

‘Pineapple Grass’ is from Melissa’s 2023 art residency in Tasmania, Australia where she studied the ancient trees and rare endemic species of Tasmania. This is a rare piece being Melissa’s largest oil pastel to date. You may read her artist statement below:

Astelia alpina var. alpina can only be found in the alpine and subalpine areas of lutruwita-Tasmania. Its common name, pineapple grass, stems from the leaves resembling those of a pineapple. Upon seeing it for the first time, I was naturally amused that this grass with a tropical name survives in sub-zero conditions. This painting also includes other Tasmanian alpine endemic species. They are the yellow orites, alpine yellow gum, and the snow peppermint. This particular view overlooking the pineapple grass, and the source of inspiration for this painting, is located within the UNESCO World Heritage listed Mt Field National Park on the Moorland Mosaic trail.