Council
24 January, 2023
World-acclaimed artist uses Somerset region as inspiration for Exhibition
CAITLIN Franzmann has exhibited across the globe, including at National Gallery of Victoria, Institute of Modern Art, Brisbane and Kyoto Art Centre, and has now opened her exhibition ‘Natural State’ at The Condensery in Toogoolawah.
After being awarded the inaugural Metro Arts Visual Arts Pathfinder Program residency (2022-2023), Caitlin had the opportunity to reside in the Somerset region.
Caitlin said this was the first commission The Condensery had offered to an artist and she was very grateful for the invitation.
“The invitation was to spend a year meeting with the community and developing a series of works that respond to the contacts and places of the region,” Caitlin said.
Exploring the big themes of ‘change’, ‘culture’, ‘boarders’ and ‘containers’, Caitlin’s exhibition reflects the practices of different people across the Somerset region, including landholders, farmers, land care groups and first nations people.
Caitlin said during her year’s stay in the region she met with many land conservationists, observing how land management practices are being used to protect ecosystems.
“I met a lot of people who were working with land care,” Caitlin said.
One particular group she spent time with were caretaking a “little pocket of tropical rainforest between Moore and Linville”.
“I spent time with them and observed over the year the transition that had occurred over the years due to care.”
These observations ultimately inspired Caitlin’s exhibition which consists of four sculpture works and a video installation.
Advisory Committee, Helen Brieschke, said Natural State by Caitlin Franzmann is an
exhibition not to be missed.
“The exhibition, Natural State showcases Caitlin’s work following on from the year
she spent in residence in Somerset meeting and talking with individuals and groups
as well as visiting sites across the region,” Cr Brieschke said.
The exhibitions will be on display until 12 February 2023.
To find out more about the regional art gallery visit: thecondensery.com.au
