There’s something magical about Mary

The Botanical World of Mary Delany will run from 4 February to 9 May 2026, featuring 21 high-resolution reproductions of Delany’s exquisite “paper mosaiks” of plants and flowers.

Delany, aged in her 70s at the time, invented a unique papercutting technique, carefully cutting and layering paper to create detailed images rather than painting them.

She went on to produce about 1,000 intricate illustrations of botanicals. Often mistaken for watercolours, her works are finely constructed paper collages.  

These stunning images give visitors a chance to explore Delany’s creative process and remarkable skill behind these delicate works in a way that is rarely possible due to their fragility. 

Adding a contemporary dimension to this exhibition, professional Perth artists Samuel Beilby, Lucy Dougan, Savannah Matthews and aromatherapist Donna Cochrane will present new works responding to Delany’s oeuvre (body of works). 

Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken said bringing The Botanical World of Mary Delany to Australia for the first time, demonstrated the City’s commitment to making arts and culture accessible to the local community. 

“By collaborating with the British Museum, we’re able to give residents and visitors the chance to experience world-class art close to home,” she said. 

“This not-to-be-missed exhibition strengthens our local arts scene, supports creative expression and reinforces the role of Wanneroo Regional Gallery as a place where people can connect with ideas, history and culture. 

“I encourage visitors of all ages to take the opportunity to step into the fascinating world of Mary Delany.”  
Francesca Kaes, Curator of British Prints and Drawings (1500-1774) from the British Museum said: “We are delighted to partner with Wanneroo Regional Gallery for this exhibition of Mary Delany’s ‘paper mosaiks’.  

“Delany’s collages depict plants and flowers from across the globe. Using high-resolution photography enables us to share these remarkable works with Australian audiences for the first time.”