2019

The native seed pods of Australia have become a central theme in my work. Not only do they house and protect the multitude of new life, they also symbolise nature’s continuous cycle of renewal and growth. These forms represent an endless flow of life coming into form, moving through form and leaving form.

Moving beyond traditional botanical studies my work transcends the everyday/mundane natural objects that we find scattering the land, and re-awakens a fascination with our natural world. When we become aware and mindful of our environment we see that what has always seemed so natural reveals how wondrously supernatural it really is.

Traces has been formed by setting the seed pods of the eucalyptus into concrete and then burning the material away. What is left are the carbon and resin stained fingerprints of nature. Haunting echoes of the seed pods stand in contrast to the polished brutalism of the industrial concrete.

About the Artist

Oliver Ashworth-Martin's website