This work deals with the international fight to preserve the ancient rain forests of south-west Tasmania.
The threat to the unique wilderness area is the proposed construction of a hydro-electric power station.
As well as the natural environment, this development threatened caves in the area which had been settled by Indigenous Australians for the previous 18,000 years.⁠⠀

Image Credit: Mark Dwyer. In exhibition Ruth Buchanan: The scene in which I find myself / Or, where does my body belong.

If you don't have clay at home, you might be able to get a parent or guardian to help you make some playdough. ⁠

You will need:

2 Cups all purpose flour

3/4 Cup salt

4 Teaspoons cream of tartar

2 Cups lukewarm water

2 Tablespoons of vege or coconut Oil

Food colouring (optional) 

Instructions:

1. Stir together the flour, salt and cream of tartar in a large pot. Next add the water and oil. If you’re only making one colour, stir in the colour now.

2. Cook over medium-heat, stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the dough has thickened and begins to form into a ball. Remove from heat and then place inside a bowl, gallon sized bag or onto wax paper.

3. Allow to cool slightly and then knead until smooth. If you’re adding colours after, divide the dough into balls (for how many colors you want) and then add the dough into the quart sized bags. Start with about 5 drops of color and add more to brighten it. Knead the dough, while inside the bag so it doesn’t stain your hands. Once it’s all mixed together, you’re ready to PLAY.

4. Store the playdough inside the bags to keep soft. If stored properly it will keep soft for up to 3 months. 

Start by sticking your clay / playdough to the cardboard base, this will help the sticks stay in place.⁠

Add your sticks to create your cave.
Maybe try tying them together in the middle to create a teepee shape, that will help keep our structure strong.⁠

Add in any string, wool or ribbons that you have collected.⁠

Decorate your cave and add any finishing touches!

Is your cave a neatly decorated house? Or a hideout for a jungle animal?

How did your artwork turn out? We would love to see your creation!

Share it with us, take a photo and share it on Instagram with the hashtag #GBCreate or email it to us: info@govettbrewster.com and we can share it for you.⁠⠀⁠⠀