Perth Zoo
Zoos reflect the ever-changing relationship between humans and animals. This relationship has demonstrated great resilience over time. Past societal trends have included hunting, both for sport and sustenance, entertainment, curiosity, and even reckless extinction. Today, we seek to embrace a more harmonious relationship with animals through conservation, preservation, and the breaking of extinction cycles. In the future, perhaps humans and animals will be in perpetual harmony, and there will be no need for zoos at all!
With this in mind, the Year 12 ATAR Art students embarked on an all-day excursion to Perth Zoo, on Thursday 8 February 2018, where they spent their time photographing, drawing and being immersed in all aspects of the zoological and botanical environment. They focused initially on the zoo inhabitants, especially the more exotic tigers, elephants, zebras, giraffes and colourful birds. Then they studied the artificial, manipulated habitats (with their curious mix of natural and synthetic elements) and finally they investigated the place of people in the zoo landscape; the tourists, visitors, ground staff and zoologists.
An inspiring day was had by all and a great amount of visual information was collected. I can't wait to see the wonderful artworks these talented students create from their day at Perth Zoo!
Gail Bailey
Art Teacher
