ARRERNTE COUNTRY -
Rachel Carroll: "As an environmental artist, I explore regions of ecological significance, seeking out the heartbeat of our land. My recent venture led me to Arrernte Country, (pronounced a·ruhn·duh) where I immersed myself in the landscape, conversing with locals, guides, travellers and sketching my interpretations at every opportunity.
The allure of Larapinta, Uluru, and Alice Springs captivated me – the vibrant red hues of the earth and the intense light of the region. Yet, it was the people who truly fascinated me. Connecting with the locals instantly endeared me to the region, persuading a deep curiosity about the diverse ways in which life intertwined with nature.
Nature, omnipresent, becomes a tangible force, the land is home, seeping into one's very being. The ancient 'Song lines,' carry 60,000-year-old wisdom and weave tales through rock forms and landscape. Each element, from trees to cliffs, possesses significance, unveiling a world of stories.
Discovering the Aboriginal communities' wealth of knowledge was inspiring. A simple revelation, such as the secret to coaxing Quandong to fruit, showcased the invaluable wisdom held by the original custodians.
The weight of this knowledge colours every tree and rock, transforming them into vessels of stories and education. It echoes a sentiment akin to stepping into the enchanted world of “The Secret Garden" from my childhood.
Through my art, I attempt to capture the memories of Arrernte Country, the energy resonating even in silence, and the excitement sparked by the tales of rocks steeped in history. Sacred sites add a layer of reverence.
Imagine a world where everyone had a sacred site to protect.
The energy of these locations lingers, inspiring me to explore the underlying currents felt through the earth and its people. In my paintings, I delve into layers of marks, attempting to convey the pulse of life – the unseen movements like a swiftly passing bee or the fleeting presence of butterflies and crows. I believe that if we all appreciate this pulse of life, we'll be compelled to protect it.
For me, art serves as a conduit to connect with the land. I hope it can be a reminder for others to visit, appreciate, and stay connected to these natural wonders. This concept, taught by our indigenous communities, emphasises the intrinsic connection to the land within them. It should be a wellspring of inspiration for all to care for the land and preserve biodiversity. After all, it was here before us and will live beyond us, carrying our histories too." Rachel Carroll, February 2024
Lou Nade is a multidisciplinary artist and sculptor engaging with mediums including found, reclaimed, natural resources and traditional materials. Her key theme is exploration of the concept of ‘waste’, and how society perceives certain resources as such. Through her creative expression and work with materials that might be discarded or overlooked, she poses questions about the value we assign to resources, their interconnectedness and impact on the world.
