Day Tripper

A site-responsive installation made during the Gullkistan residency, Iceland. Drinking straws are chosen to reflect the colours of the changing seasons from winter to summer, in harmony with their surroundings. Set in the sand in pairs both the colours and the jaunty angles suggest cocktail drinks, knitting needles, stitches and fish scales. From some angles they are darker, brighter, suggesting plastic, weaving, sun beds arranged to take in the view. From other angles they are barely there, like a magical apparition, coloured grasses, delicate soft threads or wool. Associations suggest the wool, knitting and fishing industries of Iceland and the nature park and resort aspect of the location, with the installation taking in the breathtaking view. The function of straws drawing up liquid also links to plants drawing up fluid and to the flavour of the land.