muddy edges is an exhibition of new work by First Nations artist Lisa Waup. Conjuring memories of the squelching mud between your toes and children’s cries of glee, the banks of our rivers have always been places to gather, rest, and connect. Revealed as gestures of Country, this new selection of works underscore Waup’s intuitive printing process and the sustainable techniques that are central to her practice. Waup incorporates unusual pigments and ochres, not limiting herself to conventional printing materials. Further developing her works through the instinctive layering of her hand drawn patterns, Waup creates complex and narrative driven work. Water is a direct link between the spiritual and physical realms and is central to First Nations cultural identities. muddy edges emphasises the preciousness and fragility of our waterways, reminding us of our responsibilities as we experience the immediacy of the climate crisis. Poetic response from Maya Hodge - Lardil and Yangkaal emerging writer and curator based on the lands of the Kulin Nation. muddy edges has been assisted by funds from the Paul Selzer Fellowship and supported by the Victorian College of the Arts at the University of Melbourne. The 2024 Gertrude Glasshouse Program is supported by City of Yarra. Gertrude Glasshouse is generously supported by Michael Schwarz and David Clouston. Printed at Spacecraft.
NTRO Output Category
- Original Creative Work : Visual artwork
Place
Narrm, AustraliaVenue
Gertrude GlasshouseMedium
Screen-Painting prints on paperResearch Statement
muddy edges situates itself within contemporary First Nations art, environmental advocacy and sustainable practices. Its research aims to explore the relationship between cultural identity, Country and climate change, while emphasising ecological preservation. The work highlights the urgent need for environmental stewardship through storytelling and sustainable art practices.
muddy edges introduces innovative printmaking techniques merging First Nations mark making with contemporary environmental activism. I use sustainable practices, such as repurposing materials and incorporating ecological themes, challenging conventional art making methods. The exhibition generates new knowledge by deepening the understanding of First Nations relationship to Country and waterways, while raising awareness of climate change through visual storytelling. It also promotes a broader dialogue on environmental sustainability, blending cultural heritage with contemporary issues in art and activism.
in 2022-2024 I was a studio artist at Gertrude Contemporary. muddy edges at Gertrude Glasshouse was the final exhibition showcasing my exploration of personal and cultural narratives through printmaking techniques, marking a significant culmination of my tenure in the program. muddy edges was significantly influenced by my receipt of the 2023 Paul Selzer Prize. This prestigious award, presented by the Victorian College of the Arts, enabled me to create ambitious works and push creative boundaries which ultimately lead to the impactful muddy edges exhibition.Size or Duration of Work
140 x 1000cm Fabriano paper, 300gsm, (x7) 76 x 112cm Somerset paper 300gsm
