Travis Italiano, The Dance of Rivergum & Jarrah (ART & OBJECTS 2025)

Photos:

Coral Emerson

Country

Australia

This display piece is a tribute to resilience and purpose, proving that old timber can find new life. The core of the design is Rivergum, salvaged from a lone tree that once stood in an industrial zone. Surrounded by concrete and steel, it stood its ground until development claimed it. Most of it was lost to landfill, but a single branch was saved, now forming the heart of this creation. Paired with it is Jarrah, once hidden within the framework of a home, discarded during renovation. Now, it stands boldly alongside Rivergum, no longer a forgotten support but a key element of the design. The spiral structure mimics the natural movement of trees, drawing the eye upward to its living highlight—a Devil’s Ivy vine. The timber doesn’t compete but enhances, guiding attention to the plant while showcasing the raw beauty of reclaimed wood. Beyond aesthetics, this piece holds meaning. Both timbers were headed for destruction, now repurposed into something with presence and purpose. The once-solitary Rivergum is no longer alone, intertwined with the Jarrah in a display of strength and renewal. In a world quick to discard the old, this piece is a statement—wood has history, character, and a future beyond waste. It stands as a testament to craftsmanship, sustainability, and the power of giving forgotten materials a second chance.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.