Lisa Waup
Ancestors
2018
![Lisa Waup, <em>Ancestors</em>, 2018 (detail), two cloaked figures: feathers, ceramic, glaze, digital print on cotton rag, cotton, copper wire, birds feet and metal stands, 41 x 28 x 50 cm each; two winged figures: feathers, ceramic, glaze, oaten hay, fibre, birds wings, wool, cotton, 30 x 30 x 20 cm. Purchased through the Elisabeth Murdoch Sculpture Fund 2018. Copyright the artist. Lisa Waup, <em>Ancestors</em>, 2018 (detail), two cloaked figures: feathers, ceramic, glaze, digital print on cotton rag, cotton, copper wire, birds feet and metal stands, 41 x 28 x 50 cm each; two winged figures: feathers, ceramic, glaze, oaten hay, fibre, birds wings, wool, cotton, 30 x 30 x 20 cm. Purchased through the Elisabeth Murdoch Sculpture Fund 2018. Copyright the artist.](https://mcclelland-live.imgix.net/artists_and_artworks/WAUP-Lisa/Ancestors-2018/Lisa-Waup-Ancestors-2018-detail.-Collection-of-McClelland.-Photo-McClelland.jpg?fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=600&ixlib=php-2.1.1&w=600&s=d513de3959c14db14720f986bd1af534)
Lisa Waup uses natural materials and processes of weaving as direct references to culture and place. Ancestors, 2018, comprises four sculptures made of feathers, ceramic, hay, wool, birds’ wings and feet, interwoven with other local materials. Part of a broader series of sculptures based on family and connection, these works reflect on relationships and histories through their relational groupings and individual identities. The figures represent the artist’s family and ancestors, who are portrayed with great delicacy, depth, and joy.
Waup alludes to her complex family history and experience of familial separation, adoption and connecting with her birth parents and extended families, in the range of natural materials she has used and their intricate combination.