Modified Earth Layers, a solo exhibition by Debbie Walter, is a body of work capturing the remnants of time in mixed media format.

A new memento mori for humankind is the Anthropocene, which Debbie’s work depicts through suggested cross-section landscapes, delving into the layers of existence. Through these mixed media works, Debbie connects personal reflections on death with the global warning of this man made stratum: the Anthropocene.

In lieu of traditional memento mori and vanitas symbols such as an hourglass to note the shortness of a lifespan, and gold coins referring to the vanity and impermanence of earthly possessions; Today, an obsolete iPhone or tablet are a reminder of the temporality of material possessions. Contemporary symbols take the form of plastic and technological belongings. These possessions are destined to become relics buried in the Earth’s layers, as Technofossils. The remnants of these possessions forewarn humanities impact on the earth. just as memento mori symbols did. These modern memento mori symbols extend beyond cautioning individuals; they seek to address people collectively. These symbols remind us not only of our individual mortality and the fragility of life but also our relationship to the environment and the transient nature of humanity itself.

Memento mori promotes a ‘seize the day’ attitude to life and has lost neither power or relevance. Rather than living a passive existence, this guiding advice is about embracing the present and actively living life to the full. But we may need reminding that it is not about taking ‘everything you can for your own benefit’. The advice should be updated to include ‘not at the expense of others – other days and other people’ 

See more of Debbie's work through her Instagram @debdesignwalter

Opening Friday 31st October from 5:30pm

Tactile Arts Gallery 
19 Conacher St, The Gardens, NT

Gallery Hours: 

Tuesday to Saturday - 10am to 2pm

(Please Note: The gallery is only open during exhibitions and does not open on public holidays)