Winner – 2024 RMIT Gold & Silversmithing Studio Prize
ALL HAIL THE GIANTS – a wooden love story for old growth forests
My work is concerned with the deforestation of old growth forests in Tasmania, I am motivated by the great work of the Bob Brown Foundation. Significant portions of forests and habitats of species are being lost to logging. Trees 100 years of age or more are felled and sent overseas to be wood-chipped or turned into toilet paper.
Facing extinction due to habitat loss from deforestation are the large freshwater crayfish, the Tasmanian Devil, a tapeworm exclusive to the Devil’s belly, the swift and orange bellied parrot, to name just a few. Inspired by cultures honouring nature and animals, I have created wearable pieces using carving and other woodworking techniques from old growth and plantation timbers.
The materials I have used are recycled or reclaimed. In the making of each piece I have used my scroll saw, dremmel, knives. I’ve also spent many hours sanding and polishing. Paint and gems have been added yet the wood remains the hero of the work. My purchasing of new materials is minimal, only the black spinels, the wire for the necklaces. The celery-top pine came from my furniture make partner – he had one plank of this old growth gold left in his collection. I hope I’ve honoured it in my work.
Destruction of these beautiful giants, the trees, compels me to raise awareness of the deforestation that is happening around the world at a rapid rate. We can do something to save our Tasmanian trees. Look up the Bob Brown Foundation, donate, sign a petition, protest or be aware of what you wipe your bottom with.
