In Absence opened at the Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) in Hobart today. The architectural installation was created by Kokatha/Nukunu artist Yhonnie Scarce and Melbourne architects Aaron Roberts and Kim Bridgland for the 2019 NGV Architecture Commission before moving to its new permanent home overlooking Berriedale Bay.
Jarrod Rawlins, Mona’s Chief Curator, said: ‘After many years of preparations, we are thrilled to open In Absence to the public. Being inside this pavilion gives me a sense of calm, each visit becomes a short moment of contemplation, which is why I go down there often.’
The nine-metre-high timber tower takes inspiration from traditional eel traps and is adorned with 1,400 hand-blown, black glass murnong, or daisy yams.
Yhonnie Scarce said: ‘We wanted to celebrate the amazing work of Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people going back thousands of years. For me, it’s about providing a space for people to listen, learn and tell stories.’
Kim Bridgland said: ‘In Absence is about strength and solace. Its external solidity declares presence, and speaks to resistance against dispossession. From within it offers sanctuary, a place to contemplate the enduring continuity of community and culture across thousands of generations.’
Aaron Roberts said: ‘Inside, In Absence frames sky country, directing and drawing light across its surface, changing dramatically over the course of the day with the angle of the sun. Having spent most of my younger life here in Tasmania I’ve enjoyed seeing it hold the sky here.’
