Antartica Awaits

It’s hard to imagine - given Sydney is still in lockdown - but I am very honoured to be invited to Antarctica in 2023!⁣
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I have been awarded the 2022 Australian Antarctic Arts Fellowship. The program is run by the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD), in association with the Australian Network for Art and Technology (ANAT).
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I have been offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel with Australian scientists into Antarctica to learn about the importance of the unique Antarctic and sub-Antarctic natural environments.⁣
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My time in Antarctica will help me complete and illustrate a hardcover book and major exhibition entitled SEABIRD with UK publisher Thames and Hudson @thamesandhudson which is a project I started in 2015 and will be completed by 2025. ⁣
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Antarctica’s air, water, ice and animals are of global importance to science. I have huge respect for the scientists that work for the AAD, which leads the Australian Antarctic Program and want to learn more about the role they play in helping our fragile ecosystems through research, restoration and rehabilitation of the land. I look forward to sharing their achievements and stories of hope through my work. ⁣
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I have no doubt I will have profound experiences which are crucial for any artist and for that I say a huge 'thank you'. The chance to throw my body and mind into this extraordinary world will fuel my creativity and sustain my art for years to come.⁣
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Since 1984, Australia has been sending artists to Antarctica and this is the longest running progam of its kind. ⁣
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For any artists that dream of this opportunity, expressions of interest will open March 2022.⁣
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Davis research station (below), is one of three permanent bases and research outposts in Antarctica managed by the AAD.⁣
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The photograph above is an Australian Gannet which will be included in my book and exhibition. I photographed him at the 'Twinnies Seabird rescue centre’. I hope to tell incredible stories about him and his Oceanic friends - thanks to the help of the AAD - and to tell you about this beautiful planet we live on.