A Relationship with Nature

A Relationship with Nature

This research investigates how art can capture and advance human relationship with nature. It is proposed that a disconnected relationship has grown in modern society leading to the extensive environmental problems that the world now faces thus creating an urgency that humanity again recognises that it is part of nature. To encourage connectedness with nature this thesis proposes that art can play a significant role complementary to scientific contributions, providing visual description of firsthand experience and encounter with nature. This research focuses on the significant outcomes of the studio practice and research and how collectively these contribute to the field of advancing the human relationship with nature through the making of art. The theoretical research of the thesis is undertaken to survey historical and current debates and associated art practice in the research field regarding Indigenous culture/s and historical/contemporary artistic outcomes that are positioned within human relationship with nature. This is proven through art’s capacity to provide cultural change through inquiry and community projects. Interviews were undertaken as a form of original research with contemporary practicing artists to survey current arts practice and thinking in the research field. The outcome from this research, which is site-specific ceramic based, presents new knowledge both theoretical and material, inclusive of capturing and advancing relationships with nature.

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