By creating Sweetness from the very thing that is destroying its ecosystem, I am raising awareness of the dangers of ghost nets to the reefs, animals, and the ocean. Like many other works from Erub Arts, this is created from abandoned fishing nets also known as ghost nets. These nets have been destroying reefs and marine animals around the world. The uniqueness of our reefs in the Torres Strait is inspiration to encourage its protection.
Name: Florence Gutchen
Language: Kala Lagaw Ya
Community: Darnley Island
Biography:
I was born on Thursday Island and grew up on the beautiful island of Poruma, (Coconut Island) in the central Torres Strait where my family originates from. I have six sisters and three brothers.
I was engaged in 1984 and moved to Erub in 1986 and then married in 1987. We were blessed with five children, three boys and two girls.
When I was young my favourite hobbies were crochet, bead making and sewing. As the years went by, I’ve learnt other art skills such as drawing, screen printing, lino printing, etching and ceramics. I still continue with my other crafts as well.
I enjoy my artwork and look forward to learning more new things and sharing with others in the future.
