Waterlily Life

Working at a wholesale aquatic plants nursery provided me with a deep and intimate connection to the intricate world of waterlilies. As I undertook the challenging task of organising the mother stock ponds, I delved into the complexities of identifying and managing the vast collection of tropical and hardy waterlilies.The process of identifying waterlily cultivars required keen observation and attention to detail. I meticulously documented unique identifying features such as the number of petals on the flower, the time of day it opens, and the patterns of colors on both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves. My eye for patterns proved invaluable in deciphering the colourful array of waterlilies and accurately identifying each variety.

Amidst the muddy ponds and tangled roots, I immersed myself in the beauty and chaos of aquatic ecosystems. While mucking out ponds and tracking flower colors, I encountered a diverse array of wildlife, from dragonfly nymphs shedding their final shells to black cockatoos circling overhead. My days were filled with moments of wonder and observation, from frog eggs and tadpoles to unexpected encounters like witnessing a snake devouring a frog, or a spider eating a tadpole.

Despite the challenges and physical demands of the work, I found solace and joy in being so closely connected to aquatic systems. Elbow deep in water for most of the day, I experienced the rhythm and beauty of nature firsthand, gaining a deep appreciation for the intricate patterns and processes that shape aquatic life.

My experience at the aquatic nursery not only honed my skills in plant identification and ecosystem management but also deepened my connection to the natural world. It provided me with a wealth of inspiration and insights that continue to influence my artistic practice and commitment to conservation.