Sophie Jane Shirriff
Loreto Kirribilli
‘CORAL-LATERAL DAMAGE’
Collection of Work
My body of work uses the Great Barrier Reef to reference the crisis of climate change and how it is affecting the whole world. The three white coral porcelain hearts and three white porcelain organic forms represent the human connection to the earth and how we are dying with the coral. The felt ‘cushion’ is inspired by the beautiful colours evident in a healthy coral reef and the three mixed media works express the colours of the coral reef and textures seen at a microscopic level. My intent is for the viewer to ponder their own role in climate change.
My artmaking practice has been influenced by the study and interpretation of the following artists: Juz Kitson, Ken and Julia Yonetani.
Marker's Commentary
Coral-lateral Damage sensitively investigates the detrimental effects of climate change on the world heritage Great Barrier Reef through the ingenious juxtapositions of 2 and 3d forms. The six box mounted sculptures made of porcelain and felt depict the delicate anatomical features of a human heart whilst also making subtle references to intricate organic coral forms. The stark whiteness of the porcelain not only represents demise and bleaching of the reef but also signifies human connection with it. The brightly coloured and deftly crafted felted components represent a strong thriving reef safeguarding the fragile porcelain. The three abstract 2d components further enhance the submission by revealing the vibrance and pulsating life of the reef from a microscopic viewpoint. Each image is complex, layered and refined, showcasing an accomplished understanding of colour and composition.