Alluvial Gold

By Erin Coates with Stuart James and Louise Devenish
 

14 November 2020 -  14 February  2021

Opening Night 13 November 6-8pm

 

For this major new body of work, Coates delves into the often-forgotten world below the surface to explore the changing ecology of the Derbarl Yerrigan / Swan River. Informed by marine biology, historical research and her experience free-diving in the river, Coates looks at the transference of matter into and out the river. In particular, the works respond to the accumulation of heavy metals in the bones of estuarine dolphins and the removal of the oyster shell reefs, which were heavily dredged in the 20th century to as a source of lime for building materials, including Goolugatup Heathcote. Coates' work provides a dark speculation on the transformation of river ecosystems while highlighting the fecundity and resilience of life forms within this urban waterway.

Percussionist Louise Devenish and composer Stuart James have created a musical score for works in this exhibition and for a live performance in the closing week, by exploring the instrumental potential of Coates' ceramic, oyster shell and metallic sculptures.

Alluvial Gold is part of TILT, an annual residency and exhibition responding to the site of Goolugatup Heathcote.

View the exhibition catalogue.

To purchase tickets for the performance visit the Perth Festival website.
 

Image Credit: Erin Coates 2020 still from video.