Swept away 2003
Acrylic, sand, broom, leaves on wood
90cm x 120cm
This work remembers the drowning of 353 asylum seekers, most of them women and children on board SIEV-X (Suspected Illegal Entry Vessel, X = unknown). This tragedy took place on 19 October 2001 when the vessel sank in international waters, within Australia’s maritime surveillance zone. No rescue operation was organised to save their lives. No remorse or compassion has been shown by the authorities towards their desperate struggle for survival in the open sea.
|