At first glance the glowing, frosted collection of green and gold orbs are what sparks attention but it’s the compelling story of the lonely trees delicately illustrated on the blown glass that leaves a mark. The illustrations tell the story of the Mongarlowe Mallee, an ancient tree surviving for thousands of years but now the last of six.

Winning artist, Ms Murtagh first heard about the Mongarlowe Mallee, also known as the ice age gum a few years ago in a news article and was instantly inspired and craving to know more.

“I found these trees completely fascinating and couldn’t stop thinking about them for a long time,” she explained.

“I ended up doing some research and felt quite sentimental about these “lonely trees”. A lot of my artwork is about recording moments in time, and this is a botanical extension of that, a visual representation of these last ancient trees.” Ms Murtagh added.

845 people voted in the People’s Choice and artist Jessica Murtagh takes home $5,000 in prize money.

When asked how it felt to be named the People’s Choice winner Ms Murtagh explained she felt like she had won first prize.

“There’s something uniquely special about getting such direct, positive feedback from the people who have seen my work. It is a wonderful and affirming feeling as an artist. The Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize is one of my favourite prizes, I particularly love that though it does have a theme, the diversity of mediums and ideas make it one of the most interesting art prizes in Australia.”

The People’s Choice Prize recognises the significance of the public vote, a unique feature of the award and provides visitors with the opportunity to make their choice on the piece that most evocatively reflects the spirit of the Waterhouse Prize.

Minister for Arts, Hon. Andrea Michaels explains that The Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize is a popular fixture on the South Australian arts calendar biennially.

“This prize reflects the piece that most resonates with the Museum’s visitors, and I can absolutely see why they have chosen Six is the loneliest number. It is not only stunning visually, but also provokes empathy and understanding that I think everyone can relate to, both in relation to the need to preserve our natural environment and as human beings. I want to congratulate Jessica on creating this beautiful artwork.”

The Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize is on at the South Australian Museum until Sunday 10 June. Tickets can be bought online or from the Museum.

South Australian Museum Director Dr David Gaimster says it’s always enlightening to see what resonates with visitors.

“Jessica’s work has a melancholy feel but is presented in a delicate and beautiful medium with glass and gold. I am not surprised this piece captured the attention of viewers especially with the provoking story that underpins it.”

Ms Murtagh pondered what she hopes people take away from her artwork.

“I’d like viewers to walk away having enjoyed something beautiful whilst also feeling a kind of kinship with these lovely and stubbornly long-lived trees.”