PHOTOGRAPHY/QUOTE

Sunset from a cow paddock at Woodford

Photography by Jemma Darlington

"We must be willing to let go of the life we planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us."

- Joseph Campbell

PHOTOGRAPHY

Sunrise at Lake Cootharaba

Photography by Jemma Darlington

ART

LIVE art [BY Jem.]

Photography by Jemma Darlington

The above painting was created as a Live art piece for the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society fundraiser, Ocean's Rhapsody at Melba's on the Gold Coast.

This above picture is of the half completed piece, and features a Minke Whale, a specied which is the main target of the illegal whaling activities within the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary.

Funds raised from the auction of this painting (when completed featured contributions from Sea Shepherd crew members answering the question "What does the sea mean to you?') went straight into Sea Shepherd's 9th Antarctic whale defence campaign, Operation Zero Tolerance.

FILM

Kiwi's Against Seabed Mining

www.kasm.org.nz

MUSING

A POPPY Before Rememberance Day

10th November 2012

Image by Jemma Darlington

My Mother's first ever planting of Poppy seeds, has birthed it's first stunningly elegant red Poppy. This still, grey morning; the morn' before the day we stop to pay respects to the men and woman (and children, animals and the Earth) who have suffered at the hands of war.

It has only just in the last few weeks, after reading a personal, historical record of an Australian's experience of World War I as a child, that my heart has come to understand the burden and sacrifice of such makings of man. Previously war had just been a thing that they made us learn about when I was in school. 

But I am at a point in my life where I am begining to understand such things as leaving ones life, love and home to answer the call of the Country, to then go and undertake huge personal sacrifice (often of limb and life), to murder and pillage in the name of life.

A poem by Judith Wright:

Soldier's Farm

This ploughland vapoured with the dust of dreams,

these delicate gatherings of dancing trees,

answered the question of his searching eyes

as his wife's body answered to his arms.

He let the whole gold day pass in a stare,

walking the turning furrow. The horses drew

his line straight where the shakesword corn should grow.

He, lurching mooncalf, let his eyes stride far.

They stooped across the swell and sink of hill;

made record of the leaves that played with light.

The mist was early and the moon was late,

and in between he stared his whole day full.

He asked for nothing but the luck to live,

so now his willing blood moves in these trees

that hold his heart up sunwards with their arms.

The mists dissolve at morning like his dreams

and the creek answered light as once his eyes;

and yet he left here nothing but his love.

Image by Jemma Darlington

MUSING

A Dream Not For Me

by Jemma Darlington

I’ve come to experience a dream, live the life of idols.

A welcoming home, friendly smiles; attune to the gentle rhythm of life.

Colours worn proud, fuelled by passion and tramping souls.

But my heart wanders…

Back over the green pastures and mountainous clouds which rolled on and on and on. Back through a busy terminal and navigating the relentless queues of metal ants.

Back to meet the soul, which I do so pine for. Back to continue our journey through magical lands.

Is it here where I stand to fight? Is it here where my strength lies?

My longing only inspires me to return and stand my ground, on the land where I do flourish. With the birds, and the sea spray, the treasures along the way. Where the wildflowers bloom, singing in tune with the radiant sun. Where Earth is nurtured and protected.

My destiny lies before me, and today it is clear. That I am not meant to serve my duty here. I shall create a life, where connection is ripe and I can still hold my love tight. Mother Earth, for her I will fight, just not on a ship journeying into the light.

IN LOVING MEMORY

IN LOVING MEMORY

Daphne Rosina Darlington

5th Feburary 1937 - 7th September 2012

I walked into Nature's Garden,

Springs beauty was sewn.

The trees and bees,

Blossums and birds devine.

I walked into Nature's Garden,

Earth's creation is shown.

The lock and keys to life's mysteries,

Reveal to me in time.

As I walked through Nature's Garden,

Memories of kinship unite.

Freedom wings eco through time,

Gracing day and stalking night.

I sat in Nature's Garden,

Trinkets and tottems strewn in the sand.

Dainty little wrens appear,

Flitting and cherping as they land.

I am now Nature's Garden,

Through me Earth shall speak.

Strengthened now is my love,

Her ways I do seek.

May you rest now in Nature's Garden,

The burden of body and mind has come to pass.

Spirit continue with your journey,

May you be in peace at last.

"My Dear Grandmother, may you sit amoungst

 the flowers you adored so much.

Embrace the Spring, as it brings rebirth.

Rest your soul for now you are free."

 

- Jem.

EDUCATION/ENVIRONMENT

Bob's Mission

Bob Brown talking on Ten News about his involvment with the Sea Shepherd Operation Kimberly Miinimbi

and the issue of the 'super trawler', the Abel Tasman.

EVENT

Community picnic rally a success!

Photograph by Jemma Darlington

 

Organised by the Friends of Kinaba steering committee, the picnic day held on Saturday the 25^th of August at Kinaba (Sir Thomas Hiley) Information Centre, was to reinforce the community’s dedication to keeping Kinaba open to the public and continuing its duty as gateway to the Noosa Everglades (a.k.a Upper Noosa River).

Kinaba Information Centre is a weathered building on the northern shores of Lake Cootharaba, a 15 minute boat ride from Boreen Point, Noosa. In July last year, a proposal was submitted to the Department of Resource Management (which currently maintains the Information Centre) for the Friends of Kinaba community group to maintain and upkeep the iconic building, under the supervision of National Parks Rangers.

The Friends of Kinaba are a collection of local residents and others who are concerned the Kinaba Information Centre is deteriorating and would like to volunteer to repair and carry out ongoing maintenance. In June 2011 following rumours the building was going to tender, a public meeting was called and a formal proposal drafted and sent to The Department of Resource Management in the following month of July. It is the vision of the Friends of Kinaba to keep this unique building available to the public as an Information and Interpretative Centre. 

Kinaba holds great value to the community as not only being the source of 30 years of history for the Noosa Region, but it also serves its duty as gateway to the Noosa Everglades within the Great Sandy National Park (Cooloola area).

This unique and pristine environment, of which the Kinaba building is a part of, has been treasured by biologists, adventurers and nature-lovers alike. The building serves as a comfortable rest point for travellers (including clients of small local businesses) to and from the Noosa Everglades, and provides vital information to visitors of the National Park.

 

 
 

 

More Information:

Friends of Kinaba - Please visit www.kinaba.org

Noosa Everglades/Great Sandy National Park - here

QUOTE

"Our culture teaches us that we have to constantly do things ("Just do it!"), to take charge and get things done.

However, there are times in life when we simply need to float, to go with the ebb and flow of things.

There are certain times and situations when, from deep down, our intuitive voices tell us to let things be." 

- Sandra Kynes, Sea Magic; connecting with the Ocean's Energy

EVENT

OCEAN AID

Sea Shepherd Conservation Society fundraiser. Tickets available
online at www.greentix.com.au

See here for more informaiton.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography by Jemma Darlington

The Ecstasy of Not Being Anybody

Enlightenment
is life without a future,
liberation from the pretense of safety.

Without a future, where did the past go?

It is the end of the known,
and the endless exploration of the Unknown.

It is the end of the struggle
to be anybody or get anything.
It is the end of looking for anything.
It is the end of tryinng to become anything.
It is the end of trying to hold onto anything.
It is the end of trying to make something happen,
or not happen.

What a relief!

-Scott Morrison
(taken from 365 Nirvana; here and now by Josh Baran)

QUOTE

There's nothing wrong with me.
Maybe there's something wrong with you.

- The Audrey's

EVENT

Photography by Jemma Darlington



WHAT: Treeline Finale

WHERE: Maroochy Botanic Gardens

WHEN: Sunday 1st July 2012

The finale afternoon for Sunshine Coast Council's 'Green June' events.

It was a gorgeous afternoon of Winter sunshine, and after a week long spell of rain and grey cloudy skies, it made the golden sparkle of the sun rays and sweet scent of flowering wattles more blissful than ever!

A brilliantly organised event; there was something for everyone, but higly focused on little humans. An all afternoon craft session, sound installation workshops, photography competition awards, art gallery display, drumming circle, a Geckos wildlife presentaiton, book reading and an illustration workshop, just to name a few!

EVENT

Paddle Out for Whales 2011 - Photography by Jemma Darlington.

WHAT: Paddle Out for Whales

WHERE: Hervey Bay

WHEN: Saturday 23rd June 2012, from 9.30am

WHAT: Each year the Paddle Out for Whales has increased in size to now be one of the biggest community protests against the slaughter of whales. The whale watching capital will come alive with activities, music, speechs, a premier film screening and the main event, the paddle out!

Visit the website for an indepth program, support this FREE event of combined whale and marine conservation organisations to not only make a stand for our majectic whale friends, but to also celebrate their precious existence!

MUSIC

Follow the Sun - Xavier Rudd

EVENT/FILM

WHEN: Sunday 3rd of June 2012

WHERE: World Environment Day at the University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs

WHEN: Screening sessions throughout the day

WHAT: The short film Preservation Revolution by Jemma Darlington is a finalist in the EcoFlicks 2012 environmental stewardship film competition. The 5 minute film has been compiled by Jemma using footage from her week long residency at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Ccentre in February 2012.

FILM SYNPOSIS:

The Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre at Eumundi was established in 1997 by Col and Gill Brownhill and takes in sick, injured and orphaned native animals from the Sunshine Coast region, returns them to health and releases them back into the wild.

But management has changed for the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre within the last 18 months, and it’s now looking to the local and wider community for support. Are you the missing branch in our quest to grow the centre into a sustainable home for the injured and healing wildlife? This is your chance to do something that really maters. www.wildliferehab.com.au

Connect with the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre on FACEBOOK

MUSINGS

The (not so) faded truth

by Jemma Darlington

It whispered to me from deep, deep within the unevolved crevices of my soul.

Like a snake which whispers softly to its prey in the dead of night.

Through the high winding mountain roads and down into the vibrant green valley it drew me forth.

Like the sun pulls the earth and moon into its golden embrace.

Like the breeze softly caressing the leaves of the gum, and the crisp valley creek flowing its liquid life; it seeped, clung and moved every fibre of my being.

Silently hypnotising; as an enchanted maiden I flowed through the fields of red, purple and gold.

Like the birds and butterflies; who are too drunk on the nectar of life.

A chill in the night to keep my senses from drowning.

As the night howls in the full moon glow.

Like the all mighty Bunya who watches over the earthlings at its roots; I kept my feet in the rich brown soil but found my heart disappearing amongst the stars.

I danced to the beat of the drum, swayed to the rhythm of the days and sang with the chorus of the birds.

Every moment from the first was like a conscious dream; every breath drew me closer to the next. At times it spoke to me so; like flame it rushed through my body and erupted through my mouth and out into my lips, as a smile so warm it melted my heart.

The end of the beginning encased my mind, body and soul in the warmth of this spirited force. Like the mystifying cry and the strong wing beats of the black figures silhouetted in the sky; I was comforted in its presence.

So even though I have left, the colours have fallen and the fires now snuffed, I do not walk away without hope. It has penetrated my skin and united through my veins to my softened heart; which I must mould a new, a stronger force to behold.

Apparently the sparkle of the light still glistens within my gaze. I cannot shake the feeling, and my mind is an intoxicated affair. But my core stays strong, this time not to be fooled. It is tuned into the truth; even if the truth may be a little faded...

PHOTOGRAPHY

Visual Arts

at
The Planting 2012

Photography by Jemma Darlington

Creation of Festival decor: brainchild of illumination artist Kerri Howell

Pack-down: just as in nature; creation is followed by destruction

The last night in paradise: a magnificent feast was had by all whom remained. Lanterns by illumination artist Kerri Howell

QUOTE

Follow, follow the sun
And which way the wind blows
When this day is done
Breathe, breathe in the air
Set your intentions
Dream with care
Tomorrow’s a new day for everyone
A brand new moon and brand new sun

So follow, follow the sun
The direction of the birds
The direction of love
Breathe, breathe in the air
Cherish this moment
Cherish this breath
Tomorrow’s a new day day for everyone
A brand new moon, brand new sun

When you feel life coming down on you like a heavy weight
When you feel this crazy society adding to the strain
Take a stroll to the nearest water’s edge, remember your place
Many moons have risen and fallen long, long before you came
So which way is the wind blowing
What does your HEART say

So follow, follow the sun
And which way the wind blows
When this day is done


-Xavier Rudd, Follow the Sun

PHOTOGRAPHY

Brahmmity Kite in Melaleuca watching over Lake Cootharaba at sunrise
Photography by Jemma Darlington

MUSIC

"All I, All I Know..." is, to get your blood pumping on this crisp autumn morning, get some grooooooovy tunes by Brisbane band the Cheap Fakes into you!


Find more tunes here.


Follow them on Facebook here.

PROJECT

re-canvas

A stall at the Kin Kin Markets on Sunday 1st of April. Selling recycled canvases for artists seeking to break the mould of confirmity!


A project of e-art-h [BY Jem.], the creation of these canvases aims to reduce the reliance that artists (ammeture, emerging and professional) have on commercially produced canvases which have detrimental effects on the environment.

Re-canvas canvases provide an eco-friendly, handmade, recycles and unique alternative for creative souls.

Stay tuned for more re-canvas happenings!

LINK/EVENT

POTATOPRINTPOPUP

What: the Hey Maker! creative collective's inaugural event. A potato print art workshop and community shop front installation.

When: Saturday 31st March and Sunday 1st April

Where: Murwillumbah, northern New South Wales

EVENT

Headlands of the Sunshine Coast
art exhibition by Stephen Roberts



Where: Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre

When: 16th March to 14th April 2012
Opening night 16th March, see flyer for more details

AWARDED

WINNER

of

Young Variety's Heart Art Show

PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS CHOICE AWARD

What makes your he-art soar?, Artwork by Jemma Darlington

On Friday the 2nd of March as part of the Young Variety Heart Art Show at Jugglers Art Space in Fortitude Valley, Jemma Darlington was awarded the Artists Choice Award for her donated artwork, What makes your he-art soar? (pictured above).

Sponsored and judged by Jugglers Art Space, Jemma's artwork was commended on the symbolism to the artshow and the work's originality.

To view more artwork by Jemma, simply browse through this blogsite and visit her painting and drawing pages.

QUOTE

 

I don't know the key to success,

but the key to failure is

trying to please everybody.

-Bill Cosby

LINK/EVENT

Young Variety 

Heart Art Show

What Makes Your He-art Soar?, Artwork and Photography by Jemma Darlington

I am donating the above work of art to the Heart Art Show which is being held this Friday night, 2nd March, at Jugglers Art Space in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane.

The event will raise funds for the childrens charity Variety, which helps support children who are sick, disadvantaged or who have special needs.

Tickets are available online here. Will be a great event!

WORDS

For the last week, I have been in another world. 

A weeks residency at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in Eumundi. Recording through photography, video and written word the work of co-founder and main wildlife carer Gill Brownhill. At almost 70 years old, Gill is working 18 hours a day, 7 days a week. Being mother to almost 300 injured, sick, misplaced and orphaned wildlife who have come into her care from the Sunshine Coast region.

The centre is currently evolving from a privately run establishment to a community supported, incorporated organisation. 

Keep checking back for updates on the centre and soon to follow will be a taste of my time with Gill.

For now, visit the centre's website. Donations from the community are what is keeping this centre running and these animals alive. Please be generous and give your support financially by going to the centre and making a donation through their Administration block. Membership is also available for a small investment of $25.

Peace&Love,

Jem.

LINK/VIDEO

Laser Beak Man - The story of autistic artist Tim Sharp from Arts Queensland on Vimeo.

Wow. What an inspiration. And beautifully filmed as well!

PHOTOGRAPHY

Critter on the Clothesline. Photography by Jemma Darlington

QUOTE

"Our tools for effecting
change are knowledge and
understanding; persistence
and hard work;
love and compassion
and respect for all life."

- Dr Jane Goodall