Beth Arnold’s first solo exhibition at Mary Cherry introduces a new body of work that examines the intersection of architecture, community and the environment. Materials such as willow branch and fabric, have been crafted into forms that function as pools, filters and surfaces, each object uniquely responding to the gallery space. These elements, along with air, light and movement converge to shape the viewer’s experience.
Beth’s site-specific sculptural practice stems from an exploration of space, and the dynamic relationship that exists between people, materials and their surroundings. Her works emerge out of careful observation of everyday encounters, from the shifting pay of light and shadow or the intricate pattern of a spider’s web, focussing on transient details and often overlooked qualities—her works are an invitation to observe the phenomena around us and create opportunities for intimate encounters with objects, materials and sites.
Beth’s collaborative approach to individual projects reflects the interdisciplinary nature of her artistic process. Whether in gallery settings or outdoor environments, she explores the potential of sculpture to create meaningful connections. This year marks a significant chapter in her career as she embarks on a project that expands her practice into a broader field, undertaking a residency at Public Realm Lab, she will be working architects, researchers, a writer, a curator, and her local community in South Gippsland, where she lives and works on Gunaikurnai Country.
