We are a group of Australian and Japanese artists who have made contemporary jewellery and objects that respond to the theme 'Above Earth, Below Sea'. The exhibition was conceived and planned in January 2011. We aimed to create a fanciful space and hoped that viewers would respond immediately with delight.
The original call out included this poem:
Objects originating deep in the ocean encircled by water or discovered high in the air above the earth. Exotic spaces more accessible by modern technology … rocket or scuba tank, blimp or submarine.
Places visited whilst on an adventure. A holiday to a new destination or wandering in your own imagination … an extraordinary experience.
Escape from the urban environment for spare time to play and relax. Feeling the elements on your skin and attending to details of the world you inhabit ... a sudden feeling of awe.
All of the artists responded immediately and enthusiastically to the opportunity to collaborate and express their stories of the way they relate to nature. We are neighbours from island nations where these natural environments play a role in our consciousness and thus aesthetics.
The artist’s statements indicate varying approaches to the theme. Some works are close to the home, arising from personal encounters and curious investigation of the miniature. Others are inspired by worlds further away than they can access or connection with something much larger than themselves.
In March 2011 Japan experienced an earthquake and tsunami. This has had a subtle effect on the work made. We began with a more idealised view and have now seen, first hand in person or second hand via the media, how nature can impact on humanity. In the tsunami region, human detritus remains but nature is regrowing and inspires hope in those who have lost possessions.
No comments:
Post a Comment