Lucas Giraldo
Sydney Secondary College Blackwattle Bay Campus
LOST FOWLS
Drawing
Digital and ink on paper
Lost Fowls responds to the loss of biodiversity due to human hunting and the encroachment of invasive species by examining extinct bird species from different countries around the globe. The main intention of my body of work was to communicate the absence of these animals by representing them in a lifelike manner. My work was inspired by three artists: Albert Bierstadt’s use of landscaping and scenery; George Edward Lodge's detailed bird paintings that convey a high level of realism; Ustad Mansur’s painting of the famous dodo bird from Mauritius, done with precision and authenticity.
My artmaking practice has been influenced by the study and interpretation of the following artists: George Edward Lodge, Albert Bierstadt, Ustad Mansur.
Marker's Commentary
This body of work demonstrates a highly developed conceptual and technical understanding, communicating the theme of extinction and loss of biodiversity with clarity and sensitivity. The integration and realism of both colour digital drawings and the monochromatic pen sketches offers a striking contrast between life and absence. The three digital drawings are vibrant and immersive, two of these portray the birds within imagined but believable natural habitats. This is effectively juxtaposed with the six black pen illustrations placed on taxidermy book pages, which convey a sense of preservation, stillness and loss.
The technical skill is commendable, particularly in the pen drawings, where the fine detailed linework on the printed book pages maintains a balance between scientific precision and expressive mark-making. The diary pages with observations of skeletal dinosaur imagery, including the skeletal horseback rider, add a poetic, slightly surreal layer that expands the narrative and encourages deeper reflection on human impact. The decision to include this element demonstrates conceptual ambition and a sophisticated point of view.
There is a clear synthesis of historical and contemporary approaches in this body of work that is well-considered and effectively executed. Overall, Lost Fowls is cohesive and thoughtful. Each component in this body of work is technically strong and has conceptual depth. The body of work makes a powerful statement about extinction and the fragility of biodiversity.