Designer and Researcher
Tulla Carson
Background
Tulla Carson, a multidisciplinary designer situated in Dharawal Country along NSW's south coast, delves deeply into the convergence of design and research. Her explorations span various realms, including ecologies, colonialism, human-nature relationships and the more-than-human world. Previously undertaking a Bachelor of Design specialising in social change and critical futures, she's currently pursuing her Masters in Design Research at the University of New South Wales, Australia. With a diverse background, her current focus in postgraduate research revolves around Relationality, Indigenous Knowledge, and Design Anthropology. Carson's approach, evident in her research and design practices, remains grounded in acknowledging the intricate connections among people, cultures, environments, and more-than-human entities. Her work underscores the importance of fostering and nurturing relationships between humans and their environments, in order to recognise our embeddedness and impact within ecosystems.
How does your work engage and consider the environment, different sites and ecologies?
My approach to all my work, both personally and professionally, is always deeply grounded in acknowledging the interconnectedness between people, culture, environments, and non-human entities. I believe that true ecological resilience arises from fostering reciprocal engagements with all kin, honouring and nurturing the relationships that emerge between human and more-than-human worlds. My work pivots away from a Western-centric perspective that places humans at the apex, instead embracing a view where all entities form an interconnected web of existence and therefor contribute equal parts. Everything I work on deeply considers the place it’s responding to or is intended for, on a micro and macro scale, endeavouring to understand the culture, ecologies and stories that reside there.
Experience with this Country/place and the thoughts it has evoked in you?
Venturing along the intricately sculpted edges beside the harbour's sandstone formations evoked a deep sense of reflection, particularly considering its pivotal role due to its location during colonisation and its far-reaching impacts. Engaging fully in this environment—listening intently, moving purposefully, and embracing sensory experiences that transcended human modes of verbal expression—revealed a profound connection with the true essence of the place. This immersive approach allowed me to grasp some layers of colonial history that are evidently woven into the landscape, prompting contemplation on the stark disparity between what this place once was and the present reality of what it is now.
Experiences with intertidal areas, the ocean and connections you've forged with country.
The land is always here – be it into the depths below, spanning across the waters or into the expansive celestial above. It's an ever-present force that has endured for millennia, yet its wellbeing depends significantly on us. It awaits our attention, understanding, connection, and care. Our dedication to learning, listening, and nurturing is crucial for shaping our interconnected future.
What holds particular significance for you in/about Neilsen Park country and Bottle and Glass Point?
Seymour is particularly drawn to seaweed, a vital component in marine systems that provides food and habitat for diverse aquatic life. Seaweed aquaculture further positions itself as a potential aid in the climate crisis, holding uses as food, biofuels and fertilisers. It is important to recognise that First Nations have a deep and diverse traditional knowledge of Australian natural resources, including seaweed. Through Seymour’s research for the Rockpools project, she considers sustainable and ethical methods of ‘extracting’ seaweed as a material for artistic purposes.
How do you create spaces for contemporary leadership, learning and collaboration with other people and the environment?
My work and leadership evolves tentatively but with focus. When people come together to discuss and learn, an approach that relies on openness, honesty, respect and dedication is required. I try to uphold this in all my movements as artist, collaborator, student and teacher.
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Floorplan Studio is based in Cadigal country, part of the Eora Nation nowadays referred to as Sydney, Australia. The Gadigal People are part of seven clans in the Eora Nation and have an extensive culture, ecology, stories and songlines unique to their region. Floorplan pays respect to First Nations people and their Elders, Past, Present and Emerging.
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