Memorial for Forgotten Plants - Port Noarlunga 

2 April - 28 June 2019 

Throughout the entire council region only 9% of our original vegetation remains, existing as small fragmented islands of habitat in a highly modified landscape. 
(City of Onkaparinga Native Vegetation Strategy 2010 –14) 

The original focus behind my Sauerbier House residency was to investigate the remnant native vegetation of the Port Noarlunga region, which, as I discovered, is diverse and subject to wide environmental challenges. Looking to narrow my focus, I sought out the local Landcare Group that supports and protects the coastal sand dunes. While my work generally reflects on the loss of native plants from our landscape, and the resultant sadness, this  residency has shown me that all is not lost. In fact, there is much to celebrate in the plants which remain alive and thriving and those folk who champion their  continued existence. 

In making the Memorials,  my process is often one of repetition; I draw each plant repeatedly,  committing its details to memory.  By sharing this practice with the wider community I have hope that each intimate and creative encounter with a local plant species offered an opportunity to remember.  

Louise Flaherty worked with the City of Onkaparinga’s Sustainability Team (through the Climate is Change initiative) as a part of this project. 

Exhibition dates: 22 June – 27 July 2019
more info
Adelaide exhibition guide - The Adelaide Review July 2019