Using Public Art to Inspire Environmental Stewardship

Written By BOHIE

In Canberra’s new suburb of Whitlam, I collaborated with the ACT Government’s Suburban Land Agency (SLA) to create an artwork spanning two ICON water boxes. Together, we aimed to challenge viewers to reflect on their relationship with the surrounding environment, including the yet-to-be-developed Natural Temperate Grassland, Box-Gum Woodland, and the Molonglo River Reserve.

To ensure the artwork captured the significance of this unique ecosystem, SLA introduced me to Nic Jario, Ranger in Charge of the Molonglo River Reserve from the ACT Government Parks and Conservation Service. Nic’s expertise was invaluable in narrowing down a list of local threatened species to feature, highlighting the delicate balance between urban development and conservation. He also shared insights on the impact of urban stormwater from Whitlam on the Molonglo River, from human debris to soil runoff, and how these issues threaten the habitat of local species.

The resulting artwork not only beautifies the public space but also sparks conversations about environmental stewardship and the importance of protecting the natural habitats that make this area so special. This collaboration stands as a testament to how art and conservation can work hand in hand to foster awareness and connection.

Client: Suburban Land Agency, ACT Government
Research Partner: Parks and Conservation Service
Year: 2022
Assisted By: Mimi Fairall, Bonnie Porter-Green, Fran Ifould

 

“Working with Bohie has brought light and joy into my day. It is so inspiring to see how much her research and connection inspires and guides her creativity and work. She is dedicated and honest and creates meaningful work that helps the community to connect with place on a deep level.”

— Nikola Plunkett-Cole, Director of Placemaking at Suburban Land Agency

 
 
Artist Bohie poses with her female team of assistants on a public mural project
public artwork inspiring environmental stewardship by Bohie Blackwood
BOHIE

Based in Braidwood, NSW, BOHIE creates art, illustration, public space murals, and creative workshopping experiences that explore wonder and connection to each other and to the natural world.

She works alongside educational institutions, government agencies, community focus groups and stewards of the natural world to design change-making campaigns for each creative project. Bohie utilises a research-based methodology to find inspiration for her artworks, resulting in 2D images which are laden with deeper stories and symbolic meaning.

This narrative driven conceptual development injects her unique authenticity and grass-roots integrity into the public arena, which she sees as a conscious challenge to public advertising. In a time of rapid change, extreme instability and a globally recognised feeling of imminent threat, Bohie’s art provides messages of hope and empowerment for a changed future.

https://www.bohie.com.au
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