The intriguing forms and colours of marine life were the focus of this entertaining exhibition.  A large range of ceramics by Dampier potter Stephanie Culling and paintings and drawings by Ian Dickinson combined to make a deep sea adventure of their own.

Stephanie Culling's creativity comes alive in her sea urchin teapots and elegant narrow necked bottles, topped with fish. The forms and colours Culling has achieved in these pieces, and in her tall wide necked vessels, demonstrate her exciting talents and innovative approach. Other pieces which are more obviously functional, such as fish-shaped bowls and platters decorated with aquatic motifs, are further evidence of Culling's expertise. It is refreshing to see such interesting work being made locally. Culling started her studies at Karratha College, then pursued them at the WA School of Art and Design, graduating in 1998. Fortunately for the Pilbara, Culling has returned to live in Dampier and, based on the success of this exhibition, has a local audience which is eager to see her ongoing development.

The realist paintings of marine life by Ian Dickinson are fascinating for their incredible level of detail. Using acrylic and gouache Dickinson has painted with meticulous accuracy to make photograph-like images. The smallest paintings appeal for their intimate focus on small fish or a sea anemone, for example. The larger works convey the abundance of colour and pattern in the fish, coral, rocks and sand on the ocean floor.

Dickinson also looks above the water for his subject matter. In paintings of wildlife the artist has captured birds, lizards, kangaroos, etc in a moment in time. Several views of the Pilbara landscape, in pastel and in acrylic, show this artist's talent in drawing the viewer in to the image through careful composition.

"Tidal Change" was an exhibition in which one found treasures at every turn.