Echoes from the Dreamtime

Gene editing is enabling scientists to change an organism’s DNA by adding, removing, or altering genetic material at particular locations in the human genome. While these technologies are still in their formative stages, they shown promise for various applications. For example, knowing the genes of a fetus, prior to conception, could allow for editing that could prevent genetically inherited diseases.

Genetic modification of organisms (GMO) is also enabling scientists to bio-remediate, develop bio-pesticides to biocontrol plant diseases, enhance nitrogen fixation and plant growth promotion. 

Thus the title, Echoes from the Dreamtime aims to reflect the dreamlike state with which humans approach biological intervention and experimentation.

The work takes the circle as a trope, a metaphor for the ‘perfect’ seed (a genetically engineered ‘Pandora’s Box’). 

It’s only when looking over previous work that deeper underlying motivations become clearer.

An outcome is an inevitably, yet never quite what was anticipated as the work always takes on a life of its own. Instead, its an instinctive process - the work dictates the eventual outcome.

The work offers catharsis, a means to confront internalised moral dilemmas, to release the ‘pictures in the minds eye, prompted by things seen, read about or encountered - landscapes, maps, grids, archaeology, repetition, science, nature, decay, the urban environment, and the media itself.

Carefully planned in the initial stages, with geometric elements accurately established, the structure becomes obscured, expressive, instinctive with each design iteration.