I chose this species as I am interested in the variety of seaweeds we have in Scotland and their historical and modern uses. Also I like to print using botanicals, including seaweed.
I learnt about how Wakame has spread across the world (and that it is edible). Also about how it could out compete our native species.
I chose to adapt an old “Observers” book, published in 1970. The book doesn’t list Wakame as a species which emphasised for me that it is a relatively recent introduction to Scottish waters. I like to use upcycled items in my artistic practice to help my work be more sustainable which is also why I chose to use an old book.
I wanted to illustrate the invasive nature of this species in particular. I decorated tracing papers with inks to look and feel like the seaweed. I cut out shapes using photos of Wakame as a template, and collaged them into the book so that the seaweed looks like it is invading the pages and taking over the book. It hasn’t fully overwhelmed the book yet and hopefully it won’t overwhelm our waters either.
Wakame Seaweed by Rosemary Everett
