Artist Talk - The House of Floating Flowers (Ukibana no ie) - Mari Hirata

Join artist Mari Hirata for a special artist talk at the Japanese House as she shares the ideas, research and creative process behind The House of Floating Flowers (Ukibana no ie)

Developed through an artist residency at the Japanese House, Hirata's site-responsive installation responds to the house's remarkable journey from Japan to Australia through architecture, memory, materiality and the symbolism of flowers. During this intimate conversation, Mari will discuss how the history of the house, its intricate craftsmanship, tropical gardens and layered cultural narratives informed the creation of new sculptural works, inviting audiences to consider how places become living archives of memory and exchange.

Following the talk, visitors are invited to explore the installation and experience the work through the artist's own perspective.

Commissioned by Umbrella Studio Contemporary Arts and artisan in partnership with The Japanese House Australia.

This is a free event.

Registration is essential as capacity is limited.

About The Artist

Mari Hirata is a multidisciplinary artist based in Lutruwita / Tasmania. Working across a range of mediums including photography, sculpture, installation, and silversmithing, her practice explores themes of memory, ritual, storytelling, and interpersonal narratives. Drawing together symmetry and organic forms, Hirata creates works that echo both natural and built landscapes, informed by the aesthetic sensibilities of her multicultural heritage. Unified by an interest in materiality, perception, and the quiet poetics of objects and spaces, her work considers how personal and collective histories become embedded within form, inviting moments of contemplation and connection.

Hirata has exhibited extensively throughout Australia and internationally, with works held in collections including the National Gallery of Australia, and has completed residencies and commissions with leading Australian arts organisations. Her small sculptures and wearable pieces are currently stocked in museum and gallery shops around Australia.