Nurturing Nature is Nurturing Ourselves
Consumption and connection are themes which have prompted great reflection for Japanese-Australian artist, Hiromi Tango.
Our constant quest to consume things more conveniently, cheaper and faster has also formed the basis of Hiromi’s artistic practice, as witnessed in her latest creation, Roots, currently on display at Sculpture at Scenic World.
Hiromi’s highly regarded work spans sculpture, drawing, photography, installation and performance. But above all, the artist is motivated to create artistic work that generates healing conversations as part of the audience experience.
“The earth seems to be crying out from the impacts of human existence… and we are living with the impact of greed and consumerism as we experience more extreme weather and natural disasters,” she said.
“Seeking harmony with our environment – whether it is the place where we were born, or an adopted home – is essential to our survival.”
Hiromi’s Sculpture at Scenic World 2021 installation, Roots, strikes a unique balance between nature and technology, showcasing a series of photographic prints displayed in brightly lit lightboxes in the ancient rainforest.
As the artist explains, the concept was inspired by cherished childhood memories spent in the garden with her grandmother in Japan.
“I remember feeling safe with my grandmother; cocooned in her care for all living things, her quiet dignity providing a sense of certainty for me in the world,” she recalls. “I long for that sense of safety and certainty again.”
Roots seeks to provide a unique connection to place and nature, embedded in respect for the land, history and culture.
This is particularly poignant in light of the COVID pandemic, according to the artist, who hopes the artwork will prompt a meaningful response from viewers.
“I want the audiences to come away knowing that our connection with nature is key to reconnecting with our inner selves,” she said.
“If we are feeling grounded and connected, perhaps we can learn to live more simply, and to take better care of our world.”
You can experience Hiromi Tango’s Roots for yourself at the Sculpture at Scenic World exhibition in the Blue Mountains from April 1 – May 2, 2021.
Sculpture at Scenic World is Australia’s premier regional outdoor sculpture exhibition that transforms an ancient rainforest into an outdoor gallery, showcasing dozens of works along Scenic World’s elevated boardwalk.
This year’s free public program also features an array of kids’ activities and access to TRACKS, a trail of outdoor artworks exhibited at iconic Blue Mountains locations. More information at sculptureatscenicworld.com.au.
Hiromi Tango is an established Tweed-based who is currently involved in a number of projects including Sculpture at Scenic World in the Blue Mountains; Botanica in Brisbane City; Solid Gold at the Gold Coast Art Gallery; Mental in Melbourne, and Lizard Tail (Recovery Project) in North Queensland. Recently she completed a permanent public sculpture for Brisbane’s Mount Coot-tha Botanic Gardens. New public art commissions include M Park, Sydney, and MAP/MIMA New Art Centre (Lake Macquarie).