Photo-media artist Jody Haines explores the deep connection between human and country in a new immersive installation called Against the Wind.
A Footscray local, Haines travelled to her traditional homeland lutruwita (Tasmania) to capture footage of the sun, earth, water, wind, and love/kin through her cinematography.
Across 10 days, Haines filmed a range of landscapes in Tasmania including Rocky Cape and Sisters Beach
The installation was created in collaboration with contemporary Indigenous dancers and choreographers Zoë Brown-Holten and Amelia O’Leary, to create a journey of sight, sound, and scent.
The filming process involved a deeply relational approach with the dancers, and and a exploration of personal connections to country.
Bluestone Church Arts Space will be transformed into an immersive space using visual and sound meditation to display Haines findings.
Supported by the Maribyrnong council First Nations Creators Program, the installation will open on Thursday, July 6, to Sunday, July 9.
Within the space, strategically placed projections transport viewers into a world where the spirit of country comes alive as thought byMs Haines.
Complementing this are eight custom-made structures, serving as projection surfaces for the captivating movements by the dancers.
“This project aims to expand collaboration as a form of resistance and connection,” she said.
“Resistance to the ongoing colonial and patriarchal project, and the deep connection between country and kin.
“We explored personal connections to the prompts of sun, earth, water, wind, and love/kin, fostering a ‘radical relationality’ that unites us with the natural, non-human, and spiritual worlds.”
Visitors can expect to be cloaked in a soundscape as they move through Bluestone and smell the aromas of gum and wood for a fully immersive exhibition.
“Once you out all your senses into an experience that is fully embodied, giving extra elements to the experience,” Haines said.
Details: rb.gy/bx9l4
Jennifer Pittorino
