Together

Leia Stratford

Year 12

School: School of Isolated and Distance Education

Medium: Watercolour paint and pencil on canvas

Artist statement: Together is inspired by the concept of re-connection and strength. As a developing artist, I wanted to capture the local Aboriginal community within Onslow, Western Australia in a positive and innovative way. My aim was to position audiences with an understanding of our ability as individuals to connect, regrow and prosper from our humanness – faults and all, and define ourselves as a part of nature rather than being separate. I incorporated a range of natural elements within the figure of my model, Liam. The hollowness at his neck shows his core; this symbolism is further emphasised by the branches that grow throughout his body. Instead of showcasing both worlds, natural and human, side by side I have depicted them merging into one.