Digital landscapes as metaphorical spaces

This project investigated the ways in which new technologies impact on our relationship to the landscape, and the metaphorical possibilities of boundary zones in the landscape; those found between the city and the wilderness. These zones encompass a convergence of different realms of experience; landscapes we inhabit, landscape we have passed through to get here, and the changes we have imposed in the process. In the postmodern world, modern technologies of travel and communication have shrunk the globe and population movement has increased dramatically. In defining self-identity, notions of place are no longer necessarily a dominant factor. This is the broad context of this research project, addressed in terms of my personal experience of migration and through theoretical and historical comparisons. Issues related to migration are epitomised by the experience of John Glover, and how his experience is reflected by his paintings. As an artist originating from England and dealing with pastoral themes I compare my response to his. I contextualise my images with those of contemporary Australian artists whose work addresses shifting boundaries and multiple perspectives in landscape, or whose work involves new technologies. Artists who use a horizontal or panoramic format to convey specific readings of landscape have been of particular importance and inspiration in the development of my images. The major body of images consists of fourteen large-scale computer inkjet prints, on translucent and transparent polyester paper and white glossy paper. They are based on local landscapes: 'natural' bush, urban reserves, farmland and parks. The artworks are derived from video. Colour, scale and form have been digitally altered. The artworks can be layered and illuminated in the gallery to manipulate the viewer's perspective and promote a sense of movement through rhythm and sequence. The artworks are intended to challenge traditionally fixed views of landscape, through the use of digital manipulation, to create generic and symbolic landscape images. The artworks emphasise transitory perspectives that characterise contemporary experience.