Fiona Pardington's latest photographic series breathes new life into the **endemic birds** of New Zealand, presenting them in a captivating and ethereal manner. These striking portraits, part of her exhibition titled Taharaki Skyside, will be showcased at the Aotearoa New Zealand Pavilion during the prestigious Venice Biennale this year.
Through her lens, Pardington captures the essence of these remarkable avian species, many of which are no longer living or critically endangered. The **Fiordland penguin**, with its dramatic yellow crest, the once thought extinct **South Island Takahe**, and the distinctive **Tūī** are just a few of the subjects she highlights. These portraits, drawn from natural history collections across the country, showcase the unique characteristics and biological variations of these birds.
Pardington's work also intertwines with literary themes, particularly drawing inspiration from Dante's *Divine Comedy*. The notion of transitioning between realms resonates through her art, as the preserved specimens serve as a reminder of the diversity of life that has either vanished or is on the brink of extinction. "Some birds, like the huia and whēkau, are long extinct; many others remain critically vulnerable," she notes, emphasizing the urgency of conservation.
The artist reflects on the historical context of bird collection practices, which often involved the demise of the very creatures being preserved. This echoes a controversial past where collectors sought rare specimens, sometimes at great cost to the species. Pardington's work serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate relationship between humans and wildlife, and how these interactions shape cultural narratives.
In her series, birds symbolize various themes, including familial bonds and ecological warnings. Pardington articulates that these avian subjects also represent individuals in her life, highlighting their significance within **te ao Māori** (the Māori world). For the Māori, birds, or **manu**, hold sacred roles as messengers between realms, further enriching the narrative of her portraits.
Pardington's focus on species like the **kākā kura**, a rare color morph of the kākā parrot, underscores the importance of these birds not only scientifically but also culturally. Her images challenge viewers to reconsider how museums curate and celebrate cultural legacies, influencing our understanding of Indigenous histories.
Experience the profound artistry of Fiona Pardington at the Venice Biennale from May 9 to November 22, where her work invites reflection on the past and hope for the future of New Zealand's unique avifauna.
