Embedded in the tropical landscape ideal is the
frangipani tree, native to Mexico, the Caribbean and
Brazil—not Sri Lanka or Australia.

Easily propagated through cuttings, it has spread to
tropical regions worldwide. In Australia, it was
introduced by Polynesian missionaries and slaves.

The tree’s flowers, known for their strong, beautiful
scent, are often called Temple Flowers.

This particular tree is found in Lunuganga, the renowned
garden of architect Geoffrey Bawa. Traditionally in Sri
Lanka, its branches are manipulated with weights and
rocks to open them from the base, a practice that can be
quite brutal.

In this piece, I aim to link the garden's formality—shown
in the edging fence and classical statue—with the
control exerted over the tree, contrasting it against the
untamed nature on the lake’s opposite side.