The Handfish & The Humans, Artist Book
- Rachel Wolfe
- Nov 2, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 13
Rachel Wolfe, The Handfish & The Humans, Artist Book, 2022
The Artist Book, The Handfish & The Humans, was created in response to the world’s first marine fish extinction, the Smooth Handfish in south-east Tasmania.
The Smooth Handfish was one of the first Australian species collected in the 1800’s by French zoologist Francois Peron and this very specimen is now the last of the species in existence. The extinction was likely caused through loss of habitat from the destructive scallop dredging fishing practices of the mid 20th century. Now, the Red Handfish, also endemic to south-east Tasmania, is critically endangered and once again the key threat is loss of habitat from an increased number of native sea urchins resulting from fishing of rock lobsters.
During my research I consulted with Dr Jemina Stuart-Smith of the Handfish Conservation Project, Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania. Dr Stuart-Smith stated that most people had never heard of or even seen a Handfish. Frustratingly, it is difficult for people to make an emotional connection with a marine fish which we cannot see in the ocean compared to how it is much easier for people to make an emotional connection with an animal we can see on the land. Dr Stuart-Smith wishes to create awareness and for the conversation to continue as the voice of the community is the most powerful.
In creating the work, my aim was to raise awareness of the Handfish, to facilitate discussion about scientific and environmental issues and for the reader to consider the concept of the sixth mass extinction. For it is not just about the extinction of animals, it is also about the future of humans. Understanding that the topic is grim and confronting, my aim was to draw the reader into the work in a more palatable way. The text is written in the style of an old-fashioned fable which delivers a naïve allegorical narrative with a moral message. To engage the reader’s emotions and to allow them to connect with the Handfish, I have drawn anthropomorphised animals and used elements of fun and playfulness to engage the reader. However, hidden within the text and imagery is a critique of human’s impact on the environment, the natural world and humanity.
The cover of the work was repurposed from a book titled “Endangered Species”. The red bindings on the outside of the spine are neat but the bindings on the inside of the spine are chaotic symbolising the complexity of the issues. The text is printed in old style script reminiscent of Aesop’s fables and the images are drawn with coloured pencils and watercolour pencils on watercolour paper. The use of red throughout the work symbolises blood, danger and extinction with the pages gradually become a darker shade of red to symbolise the plight of the Handfish, whilst the red imagery relating to man symbolises the plight of humanity. Frottage of words found on signs near the Derwent River and marginalia text provide additional clues as to the interpretation of the work.
As animals do not have a voice the final image in the book shows the Red Handfish performing the international hand sign for 'HELP'. Will humans listen now?
In creating the work, I was inspired by the Extinction Studies of Tasmanian artist Lucienne Rickard in which she draws and erases extinct species, thereby merging art and science. I was also influenced by contemporary American artist Walton Ford and the way in which he uses animals as the subject to comment on human’s interaction with the natural world. After my discussions with Dr Stuart-Smith and my research, I feel empowered that through my art I can be part of the solution by raising awareness and continuing this important discussion.
Humans are one animal among many, and we have a moral obligation to our fellow creatures and all humanity. Just as the Smooth Handfish was in the hands of French zoologist Francois Peron, our own mortality is now in our own hands.
Rachel Wolfe 14 October 2022
The Handfish & The Humans, Artist Book was submitted as part of my Bachelor of Fine Arts studies at the University of Tasmania. Shared here to document my creative practice and artistic development.
Rachel Wolfe is an emerging artist based in Hobart, Tasmania, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Tasmania. With a diverse and evolving practice, Rachel explores various mediums and techniques to create captivating and thought-provoking works of art. To explore Rachel's latest projects and artistic journey, visit her website www.rachelwolfe.com.au or follow her on social media.
