stone tides weeping trees
The central highland plateau of Tasmania, particularly its Miena cider gums (Eucalyptus gunnii), serves as the focal point of this project. These trees, capable of thriving up to 1050 meters above sea level, face severe threats from climate change, habitat destruction, and invasive species. Despite their resilience to harsh conditions, the increasing mortality rate among these trees signals a distressing ecological trend. This research utilises expanded photographic practice to document and interpret the environmental shifts and character of these specific locations over time, aiming to capture the essence of the changing landscapes and ecosystems. The Miena cider gums hold significant ecological importance, not only for their unique adaptation to the extreme Tasmanian climate but also as integral components of their ecosystem. Challenges such as invasive deer, climate-driven habitat changes, and possum predation have exacerbated their decline. This project aims to shed light on these issues, emphasising the need for conservation and raising awareness about the cider gums' ecological role. By weaving together artistic expression and scientific investigation, the project provides a multidimensional perspective on environmental conservation. In documenting the gradual decline of the central highland's ecosystems due to climate change and human impact, the work contributes valuable insights to the broader environmental conservation discourse. In highlighting the ecological value of the Miena cider gums, it seeks to deepen our understanding of environmental interconnectedness. The project strives to evoke emotions and provoke reflections on humanity's impact on vulnerable ecosystems, motivating collective efforts towards sustainable practices and conservation. The culmination of this exploration has been documented in a short documentary by Australian National Geographic, set to air in 2024, with images featured across 6 pages in Island Magazine, Vol 169, 2023
History
Sub-type
- Visual Artwork
Medium
PhotographyDepartment/School
School of Creative Arts and MediaPublisher
Bett Gallery HobartPublication status
- Published