Donnelly River Verandah Residency | Sarah Thornton-Smith

Donnelly River Verandah Residency

“Walking around #donnellyrivervillage into the karri forest surrounds this morning was ethereal. Soft softsounds of twitterings could be heard amongst the footfalls under my sneakers, whilst I looked in wonder at the morning light streaming through the trees only to land on this mound of rocky clay covered in moss. Oh how I was transported to another world even just for a minute. I stood there, still and slowing my heart, trying to match the steady beat of the forest.”

Held 10 – 16 June 2023 at Donnelly River Village as part of The Donnelly River Verandah Residency. Exhibition held at Earlywork Gallery on 15 – 24 September 2023.

Inspiration …

“Already midweek of my residency, and I’ve settled into a pattern of working and living. My sleep pattern has changed and I’m embracing the early rise to catch the morning light and mist lingering in the forest abutting my cottage. I love how the forest is so quiet that my foothalls as I walk become the loudest sound I hear. Suddenly I am conscious of how loud I am and I tell myself I need to hone in to my inner ninja or some such thing! The trees keep drawing me close. I’ve found my favourites to hug and lean into. Tall and majestic, these karri trees beckon and once in its presence, I’m held enthralled. I try to follow the weather pattern so my days flow as it comes. No plans or distractions to take me away, I am always present. It’s been such a privilege to be here and be part of this.”