Daisy Donaldson
PLC Armidale
THE AUSTRALIAN BIO-SPHERE
Drawing
Pencil on paper
My body of work examines Australia's diverse ecosystems with the intention of evoking wonder and curiosity. The recurring motif of the sphere conveys the distinctiveness and biodiversity of five major Australian landscapes. The spheres also represent a transformation of the flora and fauna into alien- like organisms. Each sphere was drawn freehand, intentionally imperfect, to communicate the organic irregularities of nature. I chose vibrant colour and an illustrative, playful style to encourage audiences to rediscover familiar landscapes with fresh eyes and a childlike sense of curiosity. The key catalogues the 76 native and introduced species referenced in the work.
My artmaking practice has been influenced by the study and interpretation of the following artists: Guido Maestri, May Gibbs.
Marker's Commentary
This body of work consists of five intriguing drawings of flora and fauna set in surreal environments, each with different climatic conditions that are cleverly populated by various species accentuated by distinctive spheres. These are accompanied with a banner of intricate drawings, providing a key to the array of animal species on show. The aesthetic qualities are heightened by exaggerated shapes and echo fantasy children’s illustrations. The visual taxonomy of transformed creatures underscores the drawings and informs audiences of identity and biology.
Combining a sense of playfulness in both title and colour, audiences engage with a compelling invitation to explore in detail this fascinating universe and journey across the various environments. The distinct, vivid and saturated colour palette characterises the underwater, forest, rocky mountains, outback plains and desert landscapes ensuring the audience considers a future vision. The drawing practice is exceptionally consistent, stylised and whimsical, graphic in nature. Material and conceptual practice is highly accomplished throughout this compelling body of work.