Description
“Collaborating for a sustainable future
Thaiday’s collaboration with Jason Christopher represents the spirit of engagement with modern technology that will help to sustain the culture and environment of the Torres Strait Islands. The Torres Strait Islands are physically close to the sea – most of the landmass has an altitude of no more than 50 metres. A number of the islands are already suffering the impact of rising sea levels. Torres Strait Islanders understand better than most what is at stake with climate change, and are activists in advancing the sustainability of marine environments.
Christopher introduced new technologies, materials, and automation to Thaiday’s contemporary seascape sculpture. The use of CAD, 3D printing and CNC machining (precision engineered metal componentry) propelled the sculptures into the digital sphere. In Erub Eastern Island Dhari Headdress Christopher reimagined Thaiday’s dhari design by adopting a new technological
aesthetic derived from the use of computerized systems. Working in close consultation with Thaiday,
Christopher designed individual components in a CAD program and assembled them into the final design. Christopher regards this collaboration as an important development for race relations in Australia. He says:The works produced serve to promote and preserve Torres Strait Islander culture as well as breaking down barriers between indigenous – non indigenous cultures.” Sally Butler, ‘Catalogue – Australia Defending the Oceans’ Ken Thaiday Snr and Jason Christopher Sculptural seascapes for the 21st century 2016 p. 44
Dimensions
H 660cm x W 2150cm x D 160cm approx.
Materials
Aluminium, stainless steel, steel, perspex,
Date
March 2016
Exhibition
Australia: Defending the Oceans at the Heart of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Art – Oceanographic Museum of Monaco
Services used:
