Sophie Carnell
Tender Treasure, 2023
fine and sterling silver
50 x 120 x 7 cm
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...
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.
Exhibitions
Exceptional Art and Design, Gallery Sally Dan-Cuthbert, Sydney, 20 December 2024 - 23 March 2025Shortlisted, Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize 2024, South Australian Museum, 12 April - 10 June 2024