The Avoca Project is the initiative of established Australian artist, Lyndal Jones. In the drought-affected Victorian town of Avoca, this European house alonside a dried-up riverbed provides an appropriate home to exhibitions, symposia, projects and events that draw community attention to the historical causes and effects of climate change. The Avoca project engages with local and international artists, scientists, experts and the community in a 10 year effort to effect change through creative, collaborative action. Long-term works that address resource use at the property seek to establish a practical and poetic approach to sustainability, such as the water tank that doubles as a soundscape. An annual festival takes place in October.
On the floodplain of the Avoca River in rural Australia an Ark materialises as a projection layered onto Watford House, home to The Avoca Project. Sounds and images of those animals already inside are heard and accompanied by thunder and lightning. As the boat takes shape against the night sky, people from Avoca and their guests line up at the gangplank for entry, disguised as animals. A poignant reminder of the fragility of species survival in light of climate changes and the spirit of a community to respond.