Van Diemen’s Band: New Harpischord decorated by Tasmanian artist Deborah Wace

A new addition to a Tasmanian chamber orchestra’s line-up has been given a unique makeover ahead of a set of concerts. See why this instrument is turning heads.

Artist Deborah Wace and Arts Minister Elise Archer beside the new harpsichord purchased through donated funds for Van Diemen's Band. (Supplied: Richard Jupe)

Two art worlds have combined for one distinct instrument with a local touch unveiled on Monday by Tasmanian chamber orchestra group Van Diemen’s Band.

The orchestra’s new harpsichord was commissioned in 2020 from Spanish instrument maker Titus Crijnen.

While harpsichords are traditionally colourfully decorated in different patterns and designs, Van Diemen’s Band executive director, Julia Fredersdorff, said they knew they wanted the instrument to “reflect the unique natural beauty” of Tasmania.

Hobart artist Deborah Wace was the perfect person for the job; a botanical and ecological artist who focuses on Tasmania flora.

“Deb’s work is the final touch on the instrument,” Ms Fredersdorff said.

“We’ve taken something that represents the apogee of European culture and given it a uniquely local twist.

“In a way, it’s the return of serve to those visiting French botanists who captured our indigenous plant culture, collecting specimens and making drawings during the 1792 D’Entrecasteaux expedition to lutruwita – a subject on which Deb has made a serious study.”

The new instrument was able to be purchased through the donations by 45 members of the community.

Ms Wace said that she had never received a commission to decorate a harpsichord, let alone an instrument.

Van Diemen's Band's brand-new harpsichord was handcrafted in Spain, but given a spectacular Tasmanian makeover, with designs celebrating Tasmanian flora by local artist Deborah Wace. (Supplied: Richard Jupe)

Nevertheless, Ms Wace created an embellishment for the instrument’s lid with spectacular digital renditions of native Tasmanian flora, including some endangered species.

“This is a meaningful commission for me,” Ms Wace said.

“Here I’ve combined the highly ornate and elaborate style of art and design that typifies the Baroque period with the land and botany of lutruwita.”

Ms Fredersdorff believes the public needs to see the instrument in person to appreciate its full beauty, and she hopes a series of upcoming performances by the band will do just that.

The harpsichord and the rest of the orchestra will tour Tasmania in October as part of the Van Diemen’s Band Borderlands tour, taking in Franklin, Tullah, Hawley Beach, Stanley, Scottsdale, St Helens and Hobart.

Tickets are available through vandiemensband.com.au.

However, audiences in Burnie won’t have to wait until October.

They’ll be able to see and hear the harpsichord this Thursday August 24 in the Lunchbox Concert at the Burnie Arts Centre.

Originally published as Van Diemen’s Band: New Harpischord decorated by Tasmanian artist Deborah Wace