Seaweed Queen by Elyssa Sykes-Smith: Myth, Feminism, and the Marine Environment

In my work I’ve been thinking about myth and fiction, and the need to embrace the unknown. The Lighthouse residency has helped to create that atmosphere. I was originally drawn to the location by participating in the Rising Tide’s People’s Blockade of the World’s Largest Coal Port of 2024. This context formed a provocative foundation on which to respond.

During my residency in April 2025, I spent time exploring the fascinating intersections between feminism, marine mythology, and science, drawn to the humble yet powerful presence of seaweed. Across cultures, seaweed and kelp have long appeared in mythology and folklore, often linked to sea deities, shape-shifting creatures, and tales of regeneration and power.

My research focused on stories of women connected to the marine environment, both historical and mythological, alongside contemporary scientific findings about seaweed’s vital ecological role. I delved into recent research from Newcastle University on seaweed’s potential as a climate solution and sustainable resource, and I collected local specimens to study their forms, colours, and textures through drawing, painting, and sound.

Working across visual and sensory mediums allowed me to observe the rhythmic beauty of seaweed: how it moves, how it sounds, and how its intricate structures mirror the interconnectedness of marine life, and our connection within the Earth’s ecology. Through this process, I began developing the fictional character of the Seaweed Queen—a mythic figure inspired by real and imagined women who protect the ocean. The character will form the foundation for future outcomes including drawings, paintings, a soundscape, poetry, and film combining these elements.

This residency was an enriching period of creative and ecological reflection, deepening my awareness of how art can illuminate the vital relationship between women, storytelling, and environmental stewardship.

 

Critical Creative X Change: A New Residency Opportunity

For those inspired by interdisciplinary creative research, a new opportunity is now open through the Hunter Writers’ Centre. Critical Creative X Change is a week-long residency of ideas, art, and action, taking place from 24–28 November 2025 at Lighthouse Arts on Whibayganba–Nobbys Headland, Muloobinba (Newcastle).

The residency invites creatives, changemakers, and critical thinkers—emerging or established—from the Hunter region and beyond to propose projects responding to the theme ECO. Submissions across all art forms, research areas, and spheres of activism are welcome.

Eight applicants will be selected to attend the program, which includes opportunities for collaboration, exchange, and focused creative development. Two $700 stipends will support participation—one for a young person (35 years or under) living in the Hunter region, and another for an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander participant from the region.

This year’s residency coincides with Rising Tide’s People’s Blockade of the World’s Largest Coal Port (27 November – 2 December), taking place nearby at Foreshore Park. Residents may choose to engage with the Blockade and the weekend “Protestival” program (29–30 November), exploring the relationship between art, activism, and ecological responsibility.

Applications close Friday 24 October 2025. For details and to apply, visit:
https://lighthousearts.org.au/creative-critical-x-change/

General Residency Program: Writer and Artist Residencies

Applications are open all year round. Lighthouse Arts residencies are by application only. The residency welcomes writers and artists of all backgrounds, ages and disciplines.

Please read the Terms and Conditions before submitting your application.

Thinking about applying but have concerns or questions? Lighthouse Arts would love to discuss ways to make a residency work for you.

Email: lighthousearts@hunterwriterscentre.org

Images: Portraits of Elyssa Sykes-Smith by Lighthouse Arts; Seaweed photos and diagrams by Elyssa Sykes-Smith

 

Posted and edited by Elyssa Sykes-Smith

  • Elyssa Sykes-Smith is a multidisciplinary artist, educator and climate psychology researcher, and Media Officer at AHNNA.