Unveiling "Concurrencies" – A story of our oceans
Following along the waterways and branches of my previous work, I wish to share
some news with you about “Concurrencies”, my latest exhibition set to be a part of the Indian Ocean Craft Triennial 2024, opening from 6 PM on August 8, 2024 until 28 August 2024.
In “Concurrencies”, I shift my focus from the tributaries of rivers and forests, to our conquest of oceans, we use technology to push complex ecosystems to the brink of extinction, confounding their inhabitants with seismic blasts, dredging, and drilling. We fish populations of sea life — living or dead — and dump continents of plastic.
Plastic engulfs the ocean; from surface to the bottom of the deep sea. Through my work I have tried to describe a world of interconnectedness; of complexity, gut and heart, grief and loss, joy and wonder in a tribute which extends through our tributaries, to the oceans of now and then spanning into our collective future.
"Concurrencies" aims to shed light on the fragile beauty of ocean life, from the sinuous sea snake populations in Northern Australia to the elusive ghost shark of the Southern Ocean. Using my corrosion casting techniques I am working with the Neuroecology Group at La Trobe and the University of Adelaide, exchanging ideas and images to accurately depict these creatures.
The creative process continues as in my studio as I craft jewellery, sculptures and objects to resemble irreplaceable nature. This project also incorporates recycled materials like copper wire and found ocean debris.
I am grateful for the funding provided by DLGSCI and the invaluable research opportunities afforded during and following my residency at the Minderoo Exmouth Research Lab in September 2022. I also continue my collaboration with Dr Christophe Casteleyn in a new project with marine researchers in Belgium, taking the reach of this exhibition across the Indian Ocean. These experiences have profoundly shaped the artworks for "Concurrencies." Even more exciting is that this exhibition will be part of the second Indian Ocean Craft Triennial’s program of exhibitions and events.
"Concurrencies" is more than an art exhibition; it's a call to reflect on our environmental responsibilities and the beauty that demands our protection. I look forward to sharing more news as we approach August.
Tineke Van Der Eecken, 2024, Sea Snake, vascular corrosion cast in copper, 300 x 190 x 30mm. Photo Yasmin Eghtesadi
Tineke Van der Eecken, Coral Island, 2024, brooch in fine silver, antique coral beads, quartz, garnets, 100 x 45 x 50mm. Photo Yasmin Eghtesadi