Fiona Pardington's Artistic Tribute to New Zealand's Endangered Birds

Fiona Pardington, a New Zealand artist of Maori and Scottish descent, utilizes taxidermy photography to address the ecological and cultural significance of New Zealand's endangered and extinct bird species. Her work, showcased at the Venice Biennale, aims to raise awareness about the impact of colonialism and habitat loss on these birds, while also emphasizing their importance to Maori culture.

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Pardington's journey with the huia bird began in childhood when she encountered its image on a silver sixpence. The huia, revered by the Maori for its “mana,” or life force, became extinct in the early 1900s due to habitat destruction following European settlement. Through her series “Taharaki Skyside,” Pardington captures the essence of 17 bird species, including the huia and the endangered kakapo, using taxidermic specimens sourced from museums across New Zealand and Australia. Her portraits, taken against studio backdrops, convey a paradoxical vibrancy, showcasing the beauty and tragedy of these birds.

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Pardington's work is deeply rooted in Maori beliefs, where birds are seen as ancestors and vital to cultural narratives. She highlights the historical exploitation of these species, noting the “wholesale consumption” of endemic birds for collections and fashion. Collaborating with experts like Maia Nuku, she aims to educate audiences on the social and biological significance of her subjects, bridging cultural gaps in understanding.

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Despite New Zealand's reputation for conservation, Pardington criticizes the government for its “clean, green posturing” while allowing new oil and gas exploration and coal mining in biodiverse areas. The Department of Conservation lists 69 threatened bird species, with the New Zealand fairy tern, tara iti, facing imminent extinction. Pardington argues for increased investment in conservation efforts to combat invasive species like wallabies and possums, which threaten native wildlife.

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Pardington emphasizes the role of art in fostering cultural dialogue and awareness. She believes that art can deeply influence societal perspectives, stating, “Art isn’t just a frivolous thing. It can affect people very deeply and move cultures.” Her intention is to engage audiences with difficult subjects through beauty and respect, advocating for a quieter yet impactful approach to activism.

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The Venice Biennale, opening on May 9 and running until November 22, will feature Pardington's work at the New Zealand Pavilion, located at Istituto Santa Maria della Pietà. This exhibition serves as a platform for raising international awareness about New Zealand's avian heritage and the urgent need for conservation.

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• “Birds are our tupana — they’re our ancestors,” — Fiona Pardington, Artist

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• “You may look at a (portrait) and go, ‘that’s a small white bird with a finch-like beak,’ but for me, behind that is all the mana and cultural profundity — which is not going to be obvious to anybody outside of New Zealand,” — Fiona Pardington, Artist

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• “I think you can do a lot more with love, respect and beauty,” — Fiona Pardington, Artist

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