Visit ‘Under The Big Blue Sky’ at Casula Powerhouse until the 20 July and experience Sonja Carmichael and Elisa Jane Carmichael’s epic cyanotypes, ‘Dabiyil Bajara (water footprints)’. This exhibition explores the power of blue not only as a visual element but as a vessel of meaning and emotion. Blue, as a colour, has indeed carried profound cultural and historical significance throughout the ages, transcending geographical boundaries and artistic movements.
‘Dabiyil Bajara (water footprints)’ comprises six expansive cyanotypes at approximately 5.5 x 2.7m and twenty-three woven rings made from Ungaire (natural fibre) and ghost net (synthetic fibres/recycled materials).
The work is a map, taking us on a journey of Quandamooka Country, above and below waterlines, from one side of Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) to other, from places rich in sea life that have provided for custodians, to places of healing that have been visited by women since the beginning. The work is a document of care, of holding Country close, of mutual reciprocity between momentary custodians and the Country they care for – it is a work made about and emerging from mothers and daughters.
Images: Silversalt Photography. Courtesy of the artists and Casula Powerhouse
