JANET LAURENCE: ONCE WERE FORESTS

Once Were Forests is an exhibition reflecting on Antarctica’s deep past, when the frozen continent was once home to lush, thriving forests. Millions of years ago, Antarctica formed part of the supercontinent Gondwana. Its climate was warmer, supporting dense vegetation, including ancient trees, ferns, and diverse ecosystems. Fossil evidence reveals that these forests experienced long periods of darkness and light, adapting in remarkable ways. Today, Antarctica stands as a vast icy expanse—seemingly lifeless, yet deeply connected to Earth's ecological history. This exhibition explores themes of time, transformation, fragility, and environmental change. Once Were Forests invites viewers to consider: - the shifting nature of climate and landscape - the memory held within ice and rock - the urgency of current environmental change By connecting past and present, the work reflects on what has been lost, what remains, and what futures are still possible.

May 20, 2026