Collecting, mapping and cataloguing are the foundational processes of my studio practice. These processes apply order to sets of found materials — in most cases packaging salvaged from the bin — so they can be observed individually or collectively, and at varying scales. This observation often asks if there are representational properties in the items that tell us about where they are from or what they depict.

My practice shifts between using collections as source or reference materials to make artworks, to presenting physical and digital collection objects in a variety of formats, including installations, assemblages and print works.

At present I have two ongoing collections, one focused on map-logos of Australia, and the other on fruit and vegetable cartons. These collections of packages and packaging scraps ask questions about identity, and whether it can be crystallised in the ‘artwork’ of transient, disposable media.

My attraction to ephemera stems from a broader interest in movement and passage, and its physical markers. This may be partly attributable to being an immigrant — I was born in Galway, Ireland, and moved to Australia at age 6. The journey and my first impressions of the landscape and its elements are, in my memory, indelible images.

I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands upon which I live and work. I recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

Sean Rafferty 2021