Ward
Aquatic, hypnotic’ is a collection of botanical sculptures inspired by riparian vegetation of the Barwon River and Connewarre region. Constructed with found grasses, ferns and various dried plant materials the works transform what was once dead into ornamental homages to their original landscapes. This collection explores the divinity of the floristic form and the ethereal characteristics obtained in the preservation process. The aim is to ask audiences to ponder over our inherent calibration with water and how that same alignment is present in all living things. Water carves and creates so much beauty across our natural world, spilling into the corners of every living thing, our organic artery of life force. What happens though, when that life supply is taken away?
By implementing a fusion of ikebana & 20th century floral design inspired by Constance Spry, the works aim to engage the viewer from the first encounter. Using the materials natural form and line to dictate the overall design, the pieces possess a balance & harmony that have the ability to draw a person in, maybe with no understanding of why. Influencing an attraction and desire to interact. It is said that our brains instantly form an unconscious opinion for everything we see, it is beyond our control and know as our visceral response.
Using this initial captivation, Aquatic Hypnotic aims to spark emotions or memories the viewer may possess about the materials used. Recalling on his or her own experiences with the landscapes where the flora was once living and growing. Drawing on the remarkable ability and transportive nature of the mind, these sculptures can be used as instruments for viewers to truly see the intricate beauty in Mother Earth. Cues to ensure people continue to engage and respect the world and her kingdoms.
Organic forms appear to be replicated across the five kingdoms. The petals of a Gerbera jamesonii seem to mimic the contour feathers of a bird. The venation pattern in leaves sharing a visual resemblance to longitudinal veins of insect wings. Taking inspiration from this organic mimicry, the dried leaves from the Strelitzia plant share a similar form to the head of the White-faced Heron, commonly seen across our Region. We are presented with these visual cues everyday in nature, however most of the time we are too distracted to notice them. By way of these sculptures viewers are encouraged to recognise and respond to forms, patterns and lines found in their own experiences with the natural world. Encouraging a fascination, wonder and love for all aspects of Mother Earth and the life force by which they can grow and flourish. A love for water. - Courtney Ward
By implementing a fusion of ikebana & 20th century floral design inspired by Constance Spry, the works aim to engage the viewer from the first encounter. Using the materials natural form and line to dictate the overall design, the pieces possess a balance & harmony that have the ability to draw a person in, maybe with no understanding of why. Influencing an attraction and desire to interact. It is said that our brains instantly form an unconscious opinion for everything we see, it is beyond our control and know as our visceral response.
Using this initial captivation, Aquatic Hypnotic aims to spark emotions or memories the viewer may possess about the materials used. Recalling on his or her own experiences with the landscapes where the flora was once living and growing. Drawing on the remarkable ability and transportive nature of the mind, these sculptures can be used as instruments for viewers to truly see the intricate beauty in Mother Earth. Cues to ensure people continue to engage and respect the world and her kingdoms.
Organic forms appear to be replicated across the five kingdoms. The petals of a Gerbera jamesonii seem to mimic the contour feathers of a bird. The venation pattern in leaves sharing a visual resemblance to longitudinal veins of insect wings. Taking inspiration from this organic mimicry, the dried leaves from the Strelitzia plant share a similar form to the head of the White-faced Heron, commonly seen across our Region. We are presented with these visual cues everyday in nature, however most of the time we are too distracted to notice them. By way of these sculptures viewers are encouraged to recognise and respond to forms, patterns and lines found in their own experiences with the natural world. Encouraging a fascination, wonder and love for all aspects of Mother Earth and the life force by which they can grow and flourish. A love for water. - Courtney Ward
