Now that I can see you
2015
Linocut on found book pages* and tissue paper, recycled corrugated iron, electric lights, mirror, on wood and metal plinth
*From the books: ‘Strategies for the Future’by Xanana Gusmao (2012), ‘The Poet’s Voice’ Ed. E.A. Southwell (1964), ‘Christ’s Object Lessons’ by E.G.White (1900), ‘Victory over Blindness’ by Sir Arthur Pearson (1920) and a page from The Australian Financial Review (16 March 2015)
“The world has somehow shifted, all at once everything looks different, now that I see you.” - from the film ‘Tangled’
The Hiroshima Lantern Ceremony and the ‘Festival of Lights’ in Thailand inspired this work. During these festivals, paper lanterns are floated on water or released into the night-sky as expressions of hope, carrying prayers for peace and new beginnings. Those who have been lost are also remembered.
I believe that Timor-Leste, having lost so much, has been releasing lanterns for many years, looking for friendship, hope and new beginnings. “We are as determined as we are optimistic about our future. To our neighbors…we are offering a hand of friendship and appealing to them to help us bring peace and freedom to East Timor.” – Jose Ramos Horta.
How will we, their closest neighbor, respond?