Woods Grove, Noosa Woods, Noosa Heads
I bet you thought ‘escape making’ was going to be about humans getting out of this situation they’ve crafted for themselves? Of course you did! That’s what we do – put ourselves at the centre of everything. It’s largely how we ended up in this predicament in the first place.
Lisa Chandler and Donna Davis haven’t subscribed to this position. Retreet on Hastings recognises that we all need a break from time to time – an opportunity to step away from the roles, responsibilities and stressors of our everyday. If you think your job is demanding, take a moment to reflect on the work trees do. Trees carry out many functions crucial to environmental health – producing oxygen, storing carbon, filtering pollutants and lowering temperatures. However, much of Queensland’s flora is seriously threatened by anthropogenic and other impacts such as land-clearing, pests and diseases, invasive species, and climate change. In tourist hubs such as Noosa Woods, trees are also expected to ‘perform’ by looking lush and healthy to please visitors. Chandler and Davis think it’s fitting that the array of high-end day spas on offer to humans up and down Hastings Street – a luxury escape destination of choice – be extended to these botanical heavy lifters.
Like the neighbouring day spas, exclusivity is central to Retreet on Hastings. It’s specifically for arboreal clientele – and humans may only enter in certain circumstances. With a full menu of treatments available, including therapy and meditation sessions, this pop-up wellness centre is sure to be in high demand.
ARTIST BIO
Lisa Chandler and Donna Davis have collaborated on creative projects, public talks and panels, published essays and conference presentations, alongside their own multi-disciplinary practices. They have a shared interest in the intersection of art and science, which forms the basis of much of their collaborative work.
A pretend day spa for trees, playfully showing that nature works hard too—and deserves care, rest, and appreciation like us.
