Janet Laurence, Breath of the Forest
Arboreal Narratives pulls together evidence from the creative arts and environmental humanities, from its members, from Indigenous artists, scientists and other professionals in support of nature. They believe that artists and art are agents for positive change and through Arboreal Narratives – an exhibition with talks, workshops and more – they initiate conversations that engender respect and recognition of the importance of trees and ecosystems to societal health. Family-friendly and intergenerational, Arboreal Narratives 2023 is designed to confer a sense of what is possible to achieve through art and offer a much-needed antidote to the catastrophes and slow decline of nature that we are witnessing almost daily around us.
Arboreal Narratives aspires to enhance perceptions of the environment for audiences and participants at a local level and beyond. Research has shown that engaging with nature locally is effective in encouraging pro-environmental behaviour and creating a community that values biodiversity in its own backyard, and further afield. Our program will be disseminated online to have impact beyond the geographical location of Woollahra.
It is our intention that our audience leaves feeling inspired and buoyed about the nature around them, wherever they live. Art lovers, families and residents of the local area and beyond will see thoughtful, striking artworks that encourage deeper contemplation about the environment and the role of art in protecting the environment. Multiple artforms will ensure that there is something for everyone.
Participating artists include established and emerging artists of the Tree Veneration Society, and noted invited artists, including Janet Laurence, and Blak Douglas.
The artworks speak of the resilience of trees, the need for respect and the protection of them and their ecosystems and most of all, our love and appreciation of these quiet sessile beings with which we and other creatures share the planet. These great shade bearers reduce water run-off, capture carbon, provide habitat and sustenance for wildlife and reduce urban heat island effect. Trees have a special place in the spiritual lives of Indigenous Australians. Most importantly, trees provide the oxygen that we breathe - they are the lungs of the planet! It has never been more evident that we really cannot live without them.