Sophie Carnell

Bruny Island, a microcosm teetering on the edge of vastness, embodies both power and fragility. Amidst its diverse and extraordinary landscapes, a swathe of rare plants cling to existence. Housed in fine silver boxes — reminiscent of archival cardboard specimen boxes — these handcrafted silver specimens pay homage to the imperilled flora, whilst also celebrating museum and herbarium aesthetics. Herbarium practices — the pressing and extraction of life — serve as a poignant analogy to our impact on the environment, whilst simultaneously yielding sublime results. Such care is meticulous, delicate and reverential. It is beauty, care and hope.