Encapsulated

"Encapsulated" invites us to explore the personal experience of the interconnection of nature and spirit. It reminds us that we are not separate from the natural world but an integral part of it. In response to the work of Satish Kumar, the artwork encourages us to embrace a life of simplicity, elegance, and joy’ where we find fulfilment through meaningful connections and purposeful actions. It emphasises our ethical obligation to live harmoniously with nature, using our gifts and resources with care and serving humanity and the planet. By embodying love, respect, and humility, we can inspire others and create a positive ripple effect on the world.

At its core, "Encapsulated" expresses the strength that a consistent simple and mindful existence offers us, the reinforcement and care it wraps around us, encapsulating our essence. It encourages us to let go of material excess and find fulfilment in the small joys of life. By living in alignment with nature, respecting its wisdom and rhythms, we can experience a deeper sense of purpose and connection. The artwork reminds us that through our choices and actions, we are strong enough to make a meaningful difference and contribute to the well-being of the planet and future generations. It invites us to celebrate the gift of life, the place we hold in the interconnection, and approach each moment with gratitude, humility, and a genuine desire to coexist with nature in a harmonious and sustainable way.

CERES

The artwork "CERES" captures the essence of transformation, as the tip is turned into flourishing gardens. It signifies a transition timeline, an evolution of space and purpose. The life cycle of trees and the intricate wood grain used in constructing buildings serve as reminders of the interconnectedness between nature and human creations. Fluctuating and wavering images and timelines depict the complex history of land usage by different groups of people. The intensity of pollution on the land is undeniable, yet it is built upon and given a chance at rebirth. The juxtaposition of decay and renewal encapsulates the ongoing process of healing and restoration. CERES stands as a testament to the resilience of nature and the potential for environmental revitalisation.

Wadawurrung Country

"Wadawurrong Country" explores contemporary connections to Country. It emphasises the importance of the intricacies of reading the landscape and understanding the language it speaks. The passion, deep knowledge, and ongoing engagement with Community highlight the significance of maintaining this profound connection with the land. Reading the trees, scarred, petrified, flowering, and interpreting the signs embedded within the landscape offer valuable insights into both its history and the actions required to care for it. This artwork also reflects upon the sheer destruction caused by bushfires, floods, and droughts on this Country. It serves as a poignant reminder that these events may have been prevented if we had heeded the wisdom of the Indigenous custodians who have nurtured and protected this land since time immemorial. By embracing a broader scope of knowledge and understanding our place within the panorama of this work, we are compelled to take proactive steps towards preserving and honouring the land for future generations.

Coal Loader

"Coal Loader" depicts the evolution of a former coal loader site into a space of regeneration, community education, and growth. The tunnels that remain beneath the land serve as enduring reminders of the destructive practices of fossil fuel transportation. Despite these challenges, the texture of the stone captures a certain beauty, symbolising the time taken to both construct and dismantle the rock face. The site holds great significance, highlighting the contrast between the years of environmental harm caused by fossil fuel transportation and the ongoing efforts to conserve and restore the land.

This site is remarkable in the unwavering dedication and integrity of those involved in its conservation. Their journey has been marked by challenges and ongoing learning, continuously driven by a positive intent. They embody the values of resilience and environmental stewardship, using the site's past mistakes as catalysts for growth and education. This artwork invites viewers to reflect on their own role in caring for the land and to join this transformative journey towards a more sustainable future.

The Rocks Heritage

The artwork "The Rocks" delves into deep, intense pain, a raw and ripping sensation that tugs at my being, all while knowing that so many others are still in pain and that injustice continues to prevail. The consolidation of the intense learning over weeks reveals the truth of the climate crisis and the blatant misuse and disrespect of our country, which grates against my conscience. It is simply wrong, utterly and completely wrong. The frustration and the reality of the situation are almost unfathomable.

My first priority becomes how I personally deal with it, and then it extends to how I can lead others in this space. How do I spread hope and provide support? The connection to the land upon which the NSW gallery stands feels wrong, and the entire area of The Rocks carries a sense of discomfort and discombobulation. I love Sydney, but there is a lingering pain, an unsettled feeling. Something is amiss, and I am acutely aware of it, akin to the sensation when you return home and know someone has been in your house.

Learning from Country

"Learning from Country" within the "Connecting to Country" series encapsulates the essence of constant learning. As I immerse myself in the sacred sites and engage with the stories and wisdom embedded within the land, my mind swirls with a sense of journey and discovery. I attempt to contextualize and place my experiences within a timeline, only to realize the profound depth of deep time that transcends conventional notions of linear progression. Through this process, I delve into the concept of dreaming, both my own dreams and the collective dreams of humanity, seeking to understand their significance and guidance. Along this path of exploration, I confront stark truths and encounter confrontingly honest learnings that challenge my preconceptions. The scope of knowledge to learn and unlearn can be intimidating, yet I embrace it with humility and a willingness to expand my understanding of the interconnectedness of all life and the responsibilities we hold as custodians of the Earth.

MRC

The artwork titled "MRC" captures the experience of working in the field of education, where there is a constant rush and a million running thoughts. The never-ending to-do list seems to grow perpetually, with the challenge of catering to the interests of many students at once. This creates a split attention and decision-making process, where the interests of groups often take precedence over the needs of individuals. Amidst this, there are scars that traverse the entire production, highlighting the complex relationship between our work and the Country we occupy. Are our actions merely deflated symbols of action, shadows of possible change, tokenistic attempts? The Welcome to Country, while a start, does not fully address the underlying issues. The acknowledgement of Country can often feel insincere, adding to the unlimited frustrations that arise within this environment.

Timboon

The individual work titled "Timboon" within the "Connecting to Country" series explores the theme of home, resettlement, safety, and love, juxtaposed with the historical reality of sanctioned culls within my grandparents' generation on this land. Upon inquiry, any memory of the First Peoples becomes an unseen footnote, a past extermination event on their property that was long over. The contrast between the beauty of the country and the dark shadows of its history creates a complex and conflicting narrative. Racism infiltrates conversations, leading to the need for explanations of insults that are difficult to comprehend. Bringing together these conflicting truths within my mind proves to be exceptionally challenging. Deep grief and frustration emerge as I confront the reality of my situation and the powerlessness I feel in the face of larger systemic issues. However, I find solace in refocusing my sphere of influence and working towards manageable, actionable changes.