Annette Ellingsen: Statement

My practice largely centres on considering the complexities of our human relationship with the natural world. I am interested in searching for new ecological philosophies that address the challenges threatening the vitality of our planet and these examinations often result in the production of two and three dimensional artworks in a variety of mediums.

Many of my two-dimensional works are led by a process that encourages the mediums to reveal a form and direction. The mediums drip, bleed and blend with others in their proximity. I follow their gestures with more considered and decisive marks creating numerous planar surfaces and pictorial depth. This way of working allows me to become more of a collaborator in the creation of the work and invites a curiosity regarding our relationship to other components within the world.

My three-dimensional works typically employ the use of clay.  It is a material that is known paradoxically for its strength and fragility and attests to many states of flux. Given these attributes reflect my ecological observations, I believe clay has many relatable characteristics that can potentially expand the dialogue regarding the health of our natural environments. By utilising traditional hand-building techniques of coiling, pinching and moulding I’m able to have a direct and protracted engagement with the clay enabling a more considered articulation of my thoughts and emotions. 

Both my two and three dimensional works reveal my interest in using non-conventional surface applications such as timber stains and oils, bitumen paint and shoe polish. This feeds my desire to explore the nexus between tradition and innovation and extends the link between structure, surface and concept.