I have always been fascinated by the shells of the tortoises in this area—visually, materially, and symbolically. These ancient animals seem to hold the wisdom of the Karoo’s ecology. During the hot, dry start of 2024, walking to the dams became part of my daily routine much like the animals in the area. On these walks, I encountered many tortoises, each with a uniquely marked shell. I began photographing them, drawn to the growth lines, scratches, and textures that tell the story of their journeys. After the April rains they managed to venture further into the veld, and on my walks I was left to admire scutes and shells left behind. I chose not to impose form. Instead, I let each scute’s natural shape guide my making, as each one already carries its own history.
From this process, I created the series Dwelling. Using Ingold’s idea of dwelling alongside the remains of such an ancient animal felt instinctively right. The tortoises of the Karoo today closely resemble those that lived here millions of years ago, and working with their shells made me acutely aware of time, continuity, and belonging. One piece was made from the shell of a young leopard tortoise—a rare and deeply moving encounter. Though its life was brief, transforming its shell into art jewellery became an act of homage, allowing the material to continue its presence beyond death.
Dwelling is more than an acknowledgement of the species that lived here before me—it is an ode to them. I kept the metalwork minimal, allowing the tortoiseshell to lead the design. More than in any other series, I was conscious of the life that shaped the material I was working with, letting its texture and form be the star of the show.