dolichousnea longissima (methuselah’s beard lichen), metal leaf, wood, monofilament
2′ x 4′ x 6′
2016

Dolichousnea longissima commonly known as Methuselah’s Beard lichen is found along the Pacific Coast of Canada and the United States as well as in Europe, Asia, Scandinavia and Northern Africa, growing best in old growth forests in coastal climates. It can grow over six metres long along the coast. It has become an endangered species due to poor air quality and habitat degradation from deforestation. Due to the slow pace it grows, it doesn’t have a strong chance of re-populating.
Born out of the presumptuousness of my ignorance, I took the methuselah’s beard because it was inspiring and I wanted to make something with it. I took, placing higher importance on the object I could create than the role it already had. I took it to create yet another trophy to feed the insatiable appetite for comfort and beauty.

Shown as part of the group exhibition (Super) Natural with Hailey Gooch, Lauren Everall, Jo Peters and Liz Toohey-Wiese at Dynamo Arts September 2016.