Laying In-State is both the title of the artwork and the actual words hand engraved into the surface of the geological core samples, used to create the work. Core samples are cylindrical lengths of rock created during the extraction process of diamond core drilling in mining exploration, which are analysed to determine whether they contain any precious metals. Thereafter, in most cases, they become a by-product.

One of the aims of this work is to raise awareness of how the earth’s precious resources are valued by exposing the impact of mining through illuminating what is being lost, thrown away or destroyed. It serves as a material reminder of what is left behind here in the state of Western Australia with its predominant mining economy. The process of interpretating the artwork may encourage concern for the Earth’s resources to be enhanced, influenced, and ultimately motivate action.

Winner of the 2016 Invitation Art Prize