The Dingo Fence, one of the longest structures in existence at just over 5,600 kilometres. Running from Queensland down to the Great Australian Bight in South Australia. Baking paper, one of the flimsiest constructs in use. (Exit the potatoes ) Generally in 10-30 metre rolls. Combine the two. Then chart the memory lines of generations of dingoes as they trace the steps of their forebears to the fence. And beside it. Seeking entry. Reminds me a bit of refugees coz it involves shelter, food and safety. In a land of comparative wealth. But, hey, that’s another story.
I first saw The Dingo Fence just outside of Coober Pedy and it took my breath away. I mean, the absolute length compared to the chicken wire width. A Christo like construction that goes on, and back, forever. And ever. And…….
Seems to work. Keeping dingoes and emus on one side of the fence. Apart from those that may be on the other side of the wire.
So, this shows the white lines tracked by the dingoes. Couldn’t get tracking devices on the emus. Too tall. Shows the landscapes and scrapes they move through. The flat lands, red dirt, channel country. Rising hills and deepening valleys. Changing, challenging as they leave insignificant paw prints on the Continent. Webs of intent. Till they come up against the matchstick fence sitting on baking paper, covered in greasy marks. Making a howling akin to a song line. There is a hole in the fence, boys and girls…..can you find it ? I made it. By leaving the paper untouched. Thereby increasing the threat level to my comfortable existence. Of pens and paint, brushes and chicken wire, and time, while the world turns and I’m left to wonder. About the person who had the original fucking idea !
RED DIRT : The Gossamer Songlines of The Dingo Fence.
156cm X 104cm. Acrylic, paint pens, ink, baking paper, crayons and additives on board.
Ron Holden. 155 Barker Street, Castlemaine. Vic.