project: SCARRED TREE ARTWORK M4
DESCRIPTION
Indigenous art consultancy, Balarinji, engaged Di Emme to fabricate Jamie Eastwoods’ artworks at the M4 service centres in Eastern Creek.
The artworks are contemporary interpretations of the traditional scarred trees that signal directions and provide materials for cultural objects like coolamons (traditional vessels for carrying water, food and babies).
Jamie Eastwood is an artist from Dharug Country where the artworks are located. The colours in the design represent the six seasons of Dharug Country and the ‘trees’ and accompanying story speak to an ongoing connection to culture and Country.
Di Emme carved the ‘trees’ from straight camphor laurel trunks, creating the shapes and inscribing the patterns. The artist specified the colours and visited the studio to approve samples and to monitor progress.
In addition to the carving, Di Emme produced the plaque bases and stainless rings, provided layouts and shop drawings, and manufactured the fixings which secure the ‘trees’ just millimetres from the ceiling.
PROJECT SUMMARY
Di Emme was commissioned by an Indigenous art consultancy to work with Dharug artist, Jamie Eastwood, to produce his contemporary artworks based on traditional scarred trees. This involved carving the ‘trees’ and bases from a massive camphor laurel trunk, creating the ornamental stainless steel letters and rings, and and devising the installation method.
client
Di Emme was commissioned by Indigenous art consultancy, Balarinji, to fabricate Dharug artist Jamie Eastwoods’ contemporary scarred trees and Dharug story.
Services
Installation
LOCATION
M4 Service Centres, Eastern Creek Sydney
dATE
2025