I'm Dr. Mary van den Berk.
I am an artist based on Sydney's Northern Beaches, residing on the land of the Garigal people of the Guringai nation, who are the traditional custodians of this region. I respectfully acknowledge the Elders past, present, and emerging. My professional background spans social work, human genetics, and academia, and I am dedicated to promoting environmental stewardship and sustainable, equitable relationships within a compassionate society.
My artistic practice explores the impact of human activity on the environment and frequently incorporates collaboration with communities and individuals through a cross-disciplinary approach. My artwork seeks to advance social objectives, utilising art as a platform for raising awareness of societal issues and challenging prevailing assumptions. Research, collaborative engagement, and group facilitation skills are integral to my methodology, aiming to empower participants to take initiative and support change.
I come from a long line of women who repurpose clothing and other found items. I have been incorporating stitching, fabrics, and texture into my artworks for many years now. Additionally, digital images' aesthetic qualities are incorporated in my art work.
