ARTIST Dr Alison Bennett, will be speaking at a free event at The Glasshouse Regional Gallery in Port Macquarie this Saturday 5 September at 11am to complement the ‘sensorial’ exhibition.
Alison will explore how different sensory experiences can shape creative practice and offer insights into the world around us, using examples of artworks created by neurodivergent artists nationally and internationally.
“There are many artists who use their neurodiverse experience to inform their work and this is what makes their work important and transformative,” said Alison.
Her work in the exhibition is titled ‘SubMerge,’ an immersive installation featuring a 3D video of ocean creatures.
The work was developed by Alison Bennett and Megan Beckwith, with Ramana Dienes-Browning in 2023, following a concept developed through a creative dialogue online over 10 years with Dean Walsh.
“It is about the comfort and integration that many autistic people feel when submerged underwater and the strong sense of connection felt with our non-human kin – in this case the aquatic creatures encountered whilst scuba diving.”
‘SubMerge’ is designed to be experienced while lying down under a weighted blanket to mimic the weight of water during scuba diving.
Alison grew up on the Mid-North Coast.
Her family owned property in Lorne and she attended Kendall Central School.
“I feel a powerful connection to the region,” she said.
“My childhood memories of being submerged in the waters of the Camden Haven River informed the development of the work now showing at the Glasshouse.
“Indeed, my first scuba diving experience was as a teenager in the mouth of the Hastings River at Port Macquarie.
“My creative work has explored themes connected with water for a few years now.”
Alison tries to visit Ellenborough Falls at least once a year.
“It is a significant site and an important touchstone in my life,” she said.
“I am currently developing a work inspired by the waterfall that I hope to exhibit next year.”
Alison is keen to talk this weekend about how artmaking can use embodied experience to help audiences shift their understanding.
Alison’s talk will find appeal with artists and creatives, arts and disability professionals, educators, families, carers and anyone interested in neurodiversity, creativity and different ways of experiencing the world.
Morning tea will be provided. Free event, bookings essential.
www.glasshouse.org.au/Whats-on/Conversation-Space-with-Alison-Bennett
By Pauline CAIN
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