"Sea Lilies" explores the intriguing intersection of ancient natural formations and modern industrial components. Drawing inspiration from crinoid fossils, which date back 250-300 million years, with their intricate threaded exterior as well as geometric extruded interiors, the project utilises these marine creatures' ossicles as the earliest from of beads, reminiscent of ancient adornments. Through the lens of altered or false history, Bowyer fuses them with cast metal and stone, these altered pieces evoke the concept of unearthed bolts. The Permian Crinoid Ossicle fossil from Western Australia serves as a focal point, highlighting the enduring presence of these creatures throughout multiple geological epochs. Just as crinoids once formed dense, protective ecosystems, there is a link between them and the vital role of nuts and bolts from the birth of the industrial era to urban construction today. The project prompts reflection on the interconnectedness of natural history and human innovation, ultimately presenting us all as nature.
A group show of beads featuring...
FRAN ALLISON
MICHELLE HINEKURA KERR
ROSEANNE BARTLEY
KATE OXIDE
SULIETI FIEME’A BURROWS
TUI EMMA GILLIES
JANE DODD
ISAAC TEAWA
MARY CURTIS
FRANCES STACHL
VANESSA ARTHUR
LISA WEST
LISA WOODS
NELLIE PEOPLES
VICTORIA MCINTOSH
COURTNEY MARAMA
RAEWYN WALSH
MANDY FLOOD
WELFE BOWYER
JONATHAN PERCY
TANIA PATTERSON
DENISE CALLAN
