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Predators are taking over Estuary Arts Centre in Ōrewa this month, with exhibitions throughout the centre focused on this theme.
Artist and conservationist Charlie Thomas is an ideal person to demonstrate how creativity can be inspired by a love of nature – and will be giving a talk on September 10 leading into the official opening of one of the exhibitions, Nga Manu o te Moana – Seabirds of the Hauraki Gulf.
Readers may remember Charlie, now aged 20, whose art has appeared in the paper at various times, and who spent months volunteering on an isolated atoll studying wildlife and cleaning up rubbish, as well as working on boats with Sea Cleaners.
Charlie will draw on these experiences for the talk, focusing on threats (such as plastic and weeds onshore) to seabirds. There will also be some beautiful images of birds – and some confronting ones, showing the effects of plastic on albatross.
The exhibitions promise revelations to anyone who is not aware of the variety and beauty of seabirds found in the Gulf, as well as showcasing the impacts of predators and pollution.
The exhibitions • Predator Free NZ 2050 – features a range of artists responding to the predator free theme. Some explore the dire consequences on native flora and fauna while others celebrate Aotearoa’s unique wildlife. • Nga Manu o te Moana – Seabirds of the Hauraki Gulf. All seabirds nest on land and predator control is essential to their survival. Identifies species that are local to the Hibiscus Coast and includes educational speakers, a local walk, and tips on how you can help. Supported by Pest Free Hibiscus Coast, Restore Hibiscus and Bays and Forest & Bird. • Conundrum- the Reluctant Predator by Sue Hill – a solo multi-media exhibition including video, photography, paintings and sculpture. They are all on at Estuary Arts Centre in Ōrewa from September 5-October 2. Charlie Thomas’ talk is on September 10 at Estuary Arts, 2pm, followed by refreshments.
