Mandurah artists explore nature in CASM’s new group exhibition

The exhibition features works by artists Carol Nicolson, Denise Fisher and Renée Barton and explores the connection or disconnection between humans and the rest of the living world.

Each of the artists will share their own relationships and memories which triggered a journey of contemplation, exploration, reaction and fabrication about the topic over the last 18 months.

Ms Nicolson explores the topic through clay human forms to interpret the overwhelming sense of being and how this anxiety can disappear when immerse in nature.

“The smallest of creatures and wonderment of new growth remind us of a carefree childhood and our innate need and desire to connect on a deeper level,” Ms Nicolson said.

Ms Fisher, who is a textile artist, will explore biophilia through sculptural forms influenced by her childhood experiences wandering through the bush and camping with her family.

But also the beauty of her grandmother’s garden.

“It is the restorative freshness that recalibrates her sense of balance and strengthens her spirit,” Ms Fisher said.

“The sounds of birds, the smell of eucalyptus, a gurgling river, a sky full of stars offers hope and promise.”

Ms Barton will use botanical patterns and forms in her illustrations as a way of portraying her strong appreciation of nature to restore the connection of others with the natural world.

“My love for the living world is attributed to experiences from an early age surrounded by diverse gardens and unique natural bushland and coastal landscapes,” Ms Barton said.

The exhibition will be officially opened on Friday night by minister for culture and arts David Templeman at 6pm.

Mandurah residents and visitors are also invited to attend a special panel discussion with the artist on April 2.

Audiences are invited to attend a panel discussion with the artists on Sunday, April 2.

Biophilia will be available at CASM until April 9, Wednesday to Sunday from 10am until 4pm.

Visit artspacesmandurah.com.au or call 9550 3989 during gallery hours.