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Stephanie NeohGUEST (VIC)Lost World II (Edition of 7)Archival Photographic Print, 2012, 55 x 100cm (unframed), 65 x 110cm (framed) $1000 (print only) $1500 (framed)At a time when the Western“world is so concerned withclimate change and ecology, itis my belief that conservationstrategies should considerthe aesthetic appeal ofthe romantic philosophicaltradition, and incite desirefor conservation by depicting sensuous,embodied experiences of the naturalworld. As renowned artist and writer,Robert Adams once wrote, “what bothersus about primordial beauty is that itis no longer characteristic. Unspoiledplaces sadden us because they are, in animportant sense, no longer true”. Learningto read and create landscape narrativesprovides creative ways of building moreaffective bonds between people and theland. Non-rational approaches to natureconservation can help to re-enchantconservation and environmental issues.How can we have an affection for theland, when we have no connection toit? Romantic philosophy is partly basedon the idea that reality is ultimatelyspiritual, with nature itself a mirror ofthe human soul. Thus this work seeks toprovide the viewer with an experienceof the land that may encourage theirown metaphysical connection with it.Stephanie graduated from RMIT with her Bachelors degree and First Class Honours in Fine Art Photography in2007. Since then she has worked as a lecturer in photography, and it is only recently she has had the opportunityto focus on her own practice. More of Stephanie’s work can be viewed online at www.stephneoh.com30 URBAN CREATURES