In 2024, I completed my PhD, Stonesense: Towards Lithic Thinking.

In this practice-led doctoral thesis I develop a methodology of lithic thinking, using the mineral as both a material and discursive tool. A posthuman and new materialist theoretical framework supports an art practice of attending to lithic materials and their dynamic processes through a sculptural and installation practice. Stonesense works primarily with metals such as copper and iron, as well as iron slag and other mineral materials, to build space for reimagining inorganic relationality.

I investigate the origins of the materials I work with, researching sites of extractive mining here in Aotearoa New Zealand, both historic and contemporary, specifically onepuu (black sand) mining and steel making at Waiuku, iron quarrying and smelting at Onekaka, and copper and chromite mining at Whakatuu Nelson. Layered through this exegesis is my position as Tangata Tiriti (Treaty partner) in Aotearoa and the responsibilities that this position entails. These responsibilities lead me to consider the role of sites in the landscape in my project and the ethics of using earthly materials in an art practice.