My work explores the connection between bones and bodies and how they are presented and stored after death. Working mostly in ceramic, I have created bone-like forms from clay and wheel-thrown urns. Using ceramics creates a pseudo-bone-like surface texture, creating a visceral connection between the materials and concept. This work attempts to create a domestic context to stage the urn and invites the audience to view the bone from either side with the aid of the mirror. My intention with this work is to spark difficult conversations about how we choose to represent the dead and a societal discomfort with the familiarity of death.
In the spirit of reconciliation Monash University acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
