The art of conservation and capitalism

The art of conservation and capitalism

Corban Estate Art Centre's exhibitions, October to November 2015

Local conservations issues play a strong role in Corban Estate Arts Centre’s upcoming exhibitions, whilst a number of the works also reflect on the effects of globalisation in the Asia Pacific. The three solo exhibitions by Sydney-based contemporary artist Angela Tiatia, Auckland-based contemporary jewellery Ross Malcolm and West Auckland-based painter Mandy Patmore will be on display from23 October to 29 November 2015.

Yoke is a moving image installation of selected works by Angela Tiatia that contemplate globalisation and capitalisation in the Asia Pacific region. Tiatia has filmed factory working life in Auckland and in China, capturing the people behind the anonymous low cost labour force, to reflect on the interrelated consequences of out-sourcing production overseas. Titled Edging and Seaming (2013) this work will be showing for the first time in Auckland. The undesirable effect of foreign investment on developing countries is also highlighted in Neo-Colonial Extracts(2011), a work that documents the failed and abandoned Sheraton Resort in Rarotonga.

Conservation and sustainability are influences in Ross Malcolm’s contemporary jewellery practice. To draw attention to issues threatening natural and native eco systems Malcolm incorporates images of native flora into his jewellery pieces. This exhibition features a series of brooches and neckpieces made in response to local environmental issues including the devastating effects of Kauri Dieback disease; the successful fight to save 6 pōhutukawa trees in Western Springs against road developments; and the endangered wood rose (Dactylanthus taylorii).

Similarly Mandy Patmore – an artist and environmentalist based in the Waitakere Ranges –explores the notion of habitat in her painting installation, which includes native forest timber and their natural inhabitants. Patmore tracks the lifecycle of many of our native trees, from their place in the natural environment, where they provide shelter for flora and fauna; through to the stage where they are logged to build homes for people; up to the point where these wooden houses are demolished and destined for landfill. The installation, Habitat comprises of a multitude of intricately rendered indigenous plants and wildlife exclusively on reclaimed native timber.

As part of the exhibition, artist Mandy Patmore will be running the Saturday Gallery Club for kids and families on Saturday 14 November, between 10.30am – 12pm. Come and learn about native birds and insects, and create an artwork in honour of them on recycled materials

ENDS

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