Exploration 21

The Making

These stylised wooden objects represent a broad, non-specific genus and are made from prunings of trees from the Wimmera in western Victoria. Their construction methods have a minimal, environmental impact and include simple, hand-tooled assembly and natural finishing techniques

Living in remote rural Victoria I engage with the Wimmera district's unique fauna via observation and recording their activities. Specifically, my interest has been roused by the ability of nocturnal species to survive and thrive - due largely to their after-hours activities and inconspicuous behaviours. Consequently, it is this commitment to ecological activism which drives my current mindset and object making. Species of all kinds are under pressure from unsavory land management practices, including chemical insect control and crop stubble burn-off.

The works themselves are not a copy of any specific genus or celestial event. I work from observation to finished piece in as short a time as is possible – a type of metaphorical shorthand. My works are completed using colouring processes that are eco-friendly, non-chemical and mimic nature’s natural patination. Once completed, these works are displayed in a series of sculptural grids and their uniform arrangement helps accentuate their fragility and provides a curious narrative for the viewer.