Conversations with Trees (2023) is a site-responsive installation that emerged through practices of listening, attunement and making-with place. Comprising felt wrappings and clustered felt vessels installed among trees, the work explores relationships between people, materials and the more-than-human world. Made from recycled wool felt, the vessels provide temporary habitats for insects and other small species, inviting ongoing encounters and exchange. Designed to weather and gradually return to the ecosystem, the installation reflects an ethic of care grounded in ecological responsibility, interconnection and resilience. Presented as part of Sculpture in the Garden (2023) at Wollongong Botanic Garden.

Conversations with trees installation view 2023 - Photo credit Ted Souden
drawing with sticks under the trees
Conversations with Trees and Spiders Workshop 2023
Children were invited to play and touch the felt and trees 2023
Some people responded to the installation by hugging trees 2023
Charcoal rubbing - Conversations with trees and spiders workshop 2023
Charcoal rubbing - Conversations with trees and spiders workshop 2023