“Coral reefs are often described as rainforests of the sea — vibrant, biodiverse ecosystems that sustain life and protect our shores. They are a symphony of sounds: purrs, pops, grunts, crackles, and croaks: a hum of life.” But these vital habitats are
fragile environments, making them vulnerable to loss, a loss which could have a devastating impact on the future of humanity.

This exhibition by Lisa Sewards presents a new suite of works which explore the coral reef as a symbol of migration. Sewards recent visits to Australia’s Ningaloo Reef and the fringing reef around Lord Howe Island along with reef videography by Chris Van Der Spuy and the sounds of piano melodies inspired by the sea by Pete Pascoe have resulted in works which mimic the delicacy and beauty of the reef - fine Japanese printmaking papers that reflect the structures and organic nature of coral reefs atop her signature inky hues to capture the texture and rhythm of the subaquatic ocean and its creatures.

Sewards reminds us that changes in climate, rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, pollution, plastics, overfishing, and unsustainable harvesting all contribute to the degradation of vital coral habitats. She asserts that “If coral growth cannot align with rising sea levels, over 200 million people worldwide could face displacement.”