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Abstract
The introduction of invasive weed species into Australia during the late eighteenth century forever changed the Australian landscape with ecological damage occurring that is now beyond repair. This project examines the connection that weeds have with architectural destruction, providing evidence from investigations into the ruined Penfolds winery in Sydney's Minchinbury. This investigation further focuses on the exploration of how ruins and plant species have come to be the subject of numerous artists, musicians, architects and ideologies. Both academic and field based research is used to highlight the connection between weeds and ruins within my installation projects Hermitage and Hoardings: completed within the framework of my Master of fine arts research project. The work of a range artists is also used to highlight the historical and contemporary perspectives surrounding my practice. Influential sources, ranging from Joseph Gandy to Gordon Matta-Clark foreground original aspects of my own practice and are used to position my work in an original context, amidst the work of other sound and installation artists.
Whilst there are many sources of classical and ancient ruins internationally, this study principally examines the effects of invasive weeds on the outskirts of Sydney, with post-war industrial buildings warranting special examination. This project is intended to develop current knowledge around how weeds and urban ruins continue to influence the Australian biogeography.