Paula Broom
Inspired by scientist’s increasing use of artificial nests to boost breeding amongst birds, insects and mammals in Australia, and concerned about ongoing habitat destruction due to land clearing and the catastrophic effects of climate change, such as wildfires and flooding, artist Paula Broom made these nests for the non-human species of the Anthropocene to draw attention to their plight. Nests is an imaginary ecosystem of nests all made of natural materials – sticks, leaves, pine needles, and vines, foraged and hand-woven by the artist. Twine and white cotton are used as signs of the human touch, in the form of knots and visible stitching, alluding to the Anthropocene – our very own human-made epoch.
The nests are interconnected by long, miniature rope ladders that weave through the Woollahra Gallery. The installation is a playful visual pathway that intersects and disrupts to lead the audience from nest to nest through this imaginary treeless ecosystem. The work asks us to remember that forest ecosystems are home to many non-human species who rely on them for breeding, food, shelter, and indeed life.
Her video work “Under the Overstory in Trumper Park”, a slow-motion video taken underneath the breathtaking tree canopy, is from an actual walk in a local Woollahra Park. It combines two things the artist cherishes that are beneficial for mental health – walking and nature. She hopes the slow, undulating movement and layered imagery lulls the audience into a gentle reverie.
Instagram: @paulabroom & @theoriginalmiss
Website: www.environmeanttobe.wordpress.com