Cementa Residency September 2023 Ellen Ferrier

by artist artist | Artist Report

I’ve been returning to this piece for months, each time writing it anew, taking a different tact.

At first I found myself writing about the detrimental effects of cement and concrete production, and why it’s more relevant than ever to imagine new materials for the future, new ways of being and seeing and engaging in the world. The role the artist plays in positing these new realities. Their ability to subvert cultural norms through language and form and movement and sound.

Then I began writing about the people, for so many of my experiences were nourished and made possible through their generosity, their authenticity, their marvellously candid nature.

Finally, I followed instructions from the late, great, American poet, Mary Oliver, and turned to my experience of Kandos - my embodied and multi-sensory observations of place.

“Instructions for living a life. 

Pay attention. 

Be astonished. 

Tell about it.” ― Mary Oliver

Dappled Abundance

Dappled Abundance

Dappled abundance

Dappled abundance

Caramel bristles

Caramel bristles

Spiky still

Spiky still

Dappled abundance

Dappled abundance

Spinning lesson with Sue Lidgard

Spinning lesson with Sue Lidgard

Scribbles and squiggles and bulbous burls

Scribbles and squiggles and bulbous burls

Kayak with John & Cindy

Kayak with John & Cindy

Thanks Kandos! Photo by Leanne Wicks

Thanks Kandos! Photo by Leanne Wicks


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Cementa Residency September 2023 Ellen Ferrier
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Cementa Inc. acknowledges the Wiradjuri people as the Traditional Custodians of the Country upon which we live, learn and work. We honour their Ancestors and pay our deepest respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.

Cementa Inc is generously supported by the NSW Government Create NSW