︎


On a Floating World

We Came from the Sea



2021 — 2022



ON A FLOATING WORLD TRADEMARK


NEWCASTLE BATHS BY TOM DYER

Launched in 2021, On A Floating World is a new publication and event series created by Heath from the ground up. 

This project is focused on Australia’s east coast, specifically the beaches that stretch from Port Stephens to Lake Macquarie and the waterways that connect Newcastle with the Hunter Valley.

Combining art, science, history, community, and culture, the project aims to foster a deeper connection to our marine ecosystems and contemplate their futures.


custom typeface “ukiyo” in use


PROJECT MASCOT BY NEIL McCANn

Heath is responsible for all aspects of the project: from its conception, to branding, web design, curation, content production, and art direction. He was also responsible for obtaining funding grants from City of Newcastle and Port of Newcastle. The only thing he did not do is the illustrations, which are by Sydney based artist Neil McCann.
 

CAMERON WEBB ON SWAMPS & MOSQUITOES

BASTIAN FOX PHELAN ON ROCKPOOLS

This site will feature oral histories, site visits, and deep dives into the past. We aim to create a multi-faceted portrait of the area and spark a broader dialogue about the critical issue of water.

In addition to our local stories, we will also be sharing stories from around the world, highlighting the people, places, and projects that are leading the way for the future or preserving something essential from the past.

Wherever we go and whomever we visit, you will hear from experts and everyday people in their own voices and discover the many fascinating ways in which human life intersects with water.

HARTLEY SPURR, BAIT—MONGER


THE SLUMS OF HEXHAM

On A Floating World is made up of four sections, each with their own unique focus and personality:

Seafolk is an ongoing series of interviews and oral histories with people who live and work on the coastline and waterways surrounding Newcastle, stretching from Port Stephens to Lake Macquarie and around the Hunter Valley.

The Zones is a series of site visits to the various beaches, swamps, wetlands, lagoons, rivers, creeks, and waterways stretching from Port Stephens to Lake Macquarie and around the Hunter Valley.

Fathoms is series of deep dives into local history. We’ll be looking back at the characters, events, and places that have made us — from floods to fishers, shacks to shipwrecks.

The Drift is a series of interviews and stories from around the oceans, with people, places, and projects that are either leading the way for the future or preserving something essential from the past.


Kevina Jo—Smith ● Photo: Louisa Clayton


GARDEMELES MUSEUM

“My hope for the project is that people will find a deeper connection with the beaches and rivers that they love, but also rethink the way that they look at wetlands, swamps, and even stormwater drains. There is so much beauty and life in these places, and our long term
survival may depend on protecting spaces that we had previously looked at as undesirable”.
 STOCKTON SANDSPIT


COLD TEA CREEK

In the new year, the project will also begin a series of events, including walks, workshops, exhibitions, and screenings.

NOBBY’S lighthouse


ᛣ


onafloating.world


ᛉ

Made on Awabakal & Worimi Lands
Running on Cargo