My name is Tracey Benson and I am an Australian based artist and researcher with Norse, Celtic, Saxon and Briton heritage. I was born on Kabi Kabi Country in Queensland and now living on Ngunnawal Country in Canberra. I have a small understanding of the place where I now live. One thing I do know is that millions of years ago, the capital region was under water and part of an inland sea. I am passionate about joined-up thinking - acknowledging we are all part of a system and that part of acknowledging this system is to recognise the impact of humans and the urgent need for restorative and regenerative action. This concern for restorative action led to the creation of Treecreate, a platform for seeding ideas and action around restoration.
I believe that many of the answers lie in the deep knowledge held by Indigenous cultures around the world. Since 2013, I have been involved with the Aotearoa based Intercreate Trust as a Trustee. Intercreate is interdisciplinary, working closely with a number of high profile Kaumātua (Elders) and communities, helping to guide the Trust. I have been very influenced by the teachings of these Elders, in particular the teachings of peace from Parihaka. My Māori mentors encouraged me to look at my ancestors as pathways to deeper understanding and of healing. This teaching set me on a journey to better understand and know the stories of my kin, leading to discovering ancestral ties on both sides linking to Dowsing and Druidry, both practices from the northern lands that are embedded in deep respect and sensitivity to the earth.
Contributions to the Map:
The Silence: Puanga
Drawing with fire
Walking with the Ancients: Waters of the Past
Way of the Turtle: Exchanging Breath
Sea Change – Tai Timu Tai Pari Hauraki Gulf Marine Spatial Pla