For the past two and a half years, Mossman-based artist Anastasia Klose has assisted Rainforest Reserves Australia’s conservation campaign to protect Queensland’s highly biodiverse coastal ranges from poorly sited industrial wind developments, focusing in particular on the proposed Chalumbin wind development near Ravenshoe.
This exhibition of new drawings, video and performance is a response to Klose’s “random, exhausting and depressing adventures in conservation” and the artist’s growing awareness of diminishing biodiversity in Queensland and imminent threats to its unique landscapes.
The artist has read many wind farm Public Environment Reports, considered State and Federal legislation, listened to Jirrbal Traditional Custodians speak about the significance of their connection to Country, and community members talk of their love for the land and biodiversity around them, and had the privilege of getting to know inspiring conservationists as well as meet scientists and politicians. But the energy that truly drives her is a love for the beautiful landscapes in Far North Queensland and the creatures that live there.
The exhibition and publication were presented in partnership with NorthSite Contemporary Arts where the exhibition was shown from 13 April to 1 June 2024.
Public programs and events
Opening event
2—5 pm, Saturday 17 August
Joint opening of Anastasia Klose: For thy sake I in love am grown and Zanny Begg: These stories will be different.
Performances
12 noon, Monday 19 August — Friday 23 August
Anastasia Klose performed a classical repertoire in the Gallery. The artist carefully chose a selection of songs that when sung against the backdrop of her drawings and video, formed an elegy to the rapidly diminishing biodiversity of far north Queensland.
Image: Installation view of Anastasia Klose: For thy sake I in love am grown at UniSC Art Gallery. Photo: Carl Warner.