Jess Dare

Offering of Welcome

My experience with garlands has always been incredibly positive, joyful, and humbling. In 2014 I did an Asialink residency in Bangkok, Thailand researching the traditional craft of Phuang Malai (Flower Garlands). When I was presented with a Phuang Malai I felt welcomed and honoured, I felt a part of a tradition. The flowers were picked and strung together in an intricate design just for me. I was moved by the gesture, the craft, and the tradition.

This garland is an idea, a concept, a notion, a gesture, an offering of welcome, acceptance, and my wish for change. Composed of iconic Australian native plants like the Eucalypt, Flowering Gum, Wattle, Correa, Boronia, this garland’s materiality of heavy brass symbolising permanency, stability, and solidarity. Whilst the colour white represents peace, innocence, and hope.




Acquired by the National Gallery of Victoria.