Artistic Representations of Environmental Depredation: The Murray Darling Basin

Abstract

This project delves into the critical issue of environmental degradation within the Murray Darling River system, examining the multifaceted relationship between water, the Australian landscape, capitalism, and environmental adversity. This thesis sheds light on the profound implications of water representation in this region. Water, an essential element for life, knows no geographical boundaries, transcending artificial divisions. However, in ‘free markets’, the smooth flow of capital often intersects with the natural flow of water, giving rise to turbulence manifesting in crises and catastrophes. Much of the Murray Darling Basin (MDB) experienced significant changes in land cover and land use with the arrival of European settlers in the 1800s. The construction of dams and the development of irrigation followed in the early 1900s. European land uses significantly changed the hydrology and water quality of catchments in the MDB. Land use(s) continues to change today, and the consequences of global warming are also impacting the catchments. However, the introduction of European land use, including irrigation, had the most profound influence on river water quality. The rivers continue to adjust to those changes today.