The memory of the land is a central theme in this artwork, as both artists explore the relationship between materials and the environment. Their shared concern for the state of our planet has made "Evanesce" a source of inspiration for their inquiry into the impact of human activity on the world around us.

Both artists have chosen recycled fabric as their medium, using it to symbolize the transformation of landscapes. The fabric is painted and then threads are removed to evoke a sense of memory—a representation of what once was and is now disappearing. This process mirrors the adaptation of forests and their inhabitants to changing environments.

In addition to recycled fabric, graphite is employed to represent the fading but not complete disappearance of the landscape. As a stable and enduring material, graphite still fades over time, echoing the gradual changes occurring in our natural surroundings.

Through their artwork, the artists aim to raise awareness and foster understanding of the environmental changes happening around us. They hope to provoke thought and inspire action in the face of these challenges. The memory of the land, along with the potential for change, is intricately woven into their art, serving as a reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting our planet.

Evanesce, Chris Casali & Graziela Guardino, 2024, Graphite on recycled unravelled fabric, 90x30x15cm. 

GRAPHITE

Drawspace Curated by Belinda Yee

GRAPHITE takes a fresh look at an art medium that has been in use for millennia. Curated by Belinda Yee, the exhibition revisits graphite through the lens of nine contemporary Australian drawers, each offering a unique perspective on the medium’s material potential. For seasoned artists who know graphite's shape-shifting character, this show celebrates a long-standing companion while foregrounding its lesser-known qualities. For new drawing enthusiasts and the general public, we hope the show is equally captivating. From Joyce Hinterding's energy-scavenging antennae to Matthew Allen's amorphous polished surfaces and Katelyn Geard's soft-as-a-whisper figurations, this exhibition is a celebration of graphite and an exploration of its diverse material potential.

GRAPHITE features the work of Matthew Allen, Fiona Currey-Billyard, collaborators Chris Casali and Graziela Guardino, Armando Chant, Katelyn Geard, Joyce Hinterding, Annelies Jahn and Belinda Yee.