Nicholas Burridge, Dragline (detail). Courtesy: the artist and Canberra Glassworks, Canberra.

Built Geologies is an exhibition by Nicholas Burridge inspired by terraforming, a concept which literally translates to “Earth-shaping”. This process aims to modify the atmosphere, temperature, surface topography, or ecology of a planet, moon, or other celestial body to make it suitable for life. Burridge has developed a conceptual framework around geology, time, and industrialisation, which offers a unique perspective on the relationship between craftsmanship and raw materials. He explores these ideas by working with rudimentary materials in combination with industrial techniques, to transform material in unexcepted ways.

In 2023, Burridge undertook a residency at Canberra Glassworks to develop and explore naturally formed glass, where heat and pressure was applied to basalt, to form obsidian. These intriguing rock-glass hybrids exist only through human intervention, shedding light on our industrial capabilities and our indifference to the natural environment. They also serve as a poignant reminder of the immense geological forces that have shaped our planet over millennia.

This exhibition is curated by Aimee Frodsham.

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