Kunanyi

with thanks to Salamanca Arts Centre who facilitated the experience which led to these works in progress

The ‘Kunanyi’ series are cartographic hymns composed of maps hidden within the paintings - a chorus of the Artist’s Cottage, Kelly's Steps, my mountain’s conversation and the clandestine path to tragic poetic chaos and inevitability.

Just as Lutruwita-Tasmania opened borders, health guidelines mandated that my residency at The Artist’s Cottage at Salamanca Arts Centre was in precious solitude; amidst echoes of Nipaluna-Hobart’s annual festivities, yacht races and as the city called in 2022 with fireworks observed from the back steps of the cottage; an extraordinary surreal experience.

I was present as the the children from the tragic Devonport jumping-castle disaster were medi-helicoptered overhead one by one; bells tolled for funerals but also weddings and celebrations; as mobs of ‘anger’ passed-by shouting "FREEDOM!” ironically, unaware that I, quarantined in my little paradise cottage felt totally free in my solitude. It was the most surreal of times.

Punctuated by the strum of my guitar, the ping of my phone, visits from bumble-bees and birds, hours on hold with TASHealth - Kunanyi and I built a deep conversation from the back steps, her mists replied to my questions.

I will be returning to The Artist’s Cottage twice in 2024 to complete my residency in three acts; to converse with my mountain companion and continue this series of works in Hobart… this time with freedom of movement.

Note: the other completed works in this series are currently under gallery embargo. They will be posted here and on my instagram account when available for viewing. watch this space…