The Tasmanian Womens Artprize is a prestigious event that showcases and celebrates the work of talented female artists from lutruwita, Tasmania. The 2024 iteration of the Artprize features my artwork titled "Trimanya Dusk Till Dawn". This visually stunning piece, made from quills of 7 Echidnas who met their untimely demise on the road, is a thought-provoking piece that raises awareness about the plight of Tasmania's wildlife.
My inspiration for "Trimanya Dusk Till Dawn" stems from my connection with Tasmania's natural environment and wildlife. Tasmania is known for its unique and diverse ecosystem, making it home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. Unfortunately, many of these species face threats from various factors such as habitat loss, poaching, and road accidents.
To create "Trimanya Dusk Till Dawn," I carefully collected the quills of seven Echidnas who had tragically met their demise on Tasmanian roads. These quills, which are akin to feathers, are sharp and many, requiring meticulous handling and careful construction. I manipulated the quills, arranging them in a way that evokes a sense of motion and rhythm.
"Trimanya Dusk Till Dawn" serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of Tasmania's wildlife and the need to protect it. The quills, once used by the Echidnas for defense and communication, now serve as a powerful symbol of vulnerability and loss. By constructing this piece, I aim to heighten awareness about the urgent need to slow down for wildlife, particularly on roads.