Te Waihora / Lake Ellesmere is a broad, shallow coastal lake or waituna, in the Canterbury region of the South Island of New Zealand. One of New Zealand’s most important wetland ecosystems and of significant cultural importance to Ngāi Tahu, being a major source of mahinga kai (food gathering), and an important source of mana (prestige & spiritual power)
This work aims to chronicle the intrinsic beauty of these surroundings while also spotlighting the crucial importance of continuing the work in restoring and safeguarding the lake against the dual threats of human activity and climate change.
Photographs were made using large format and pinhole cameras and printed using the platinum palladium process onto vellum that is gilding on the reverse side with silver leaf. The print process used helps highlight the poignant juxtaposition between the infinite longevity of platinum prints and the ephemeral existence of the landscape they depict. The last 3 prints in the series have employed the use of the Mordancage process on the camera film negative to recognise the hidden environmental damage already inflicted but that is not always obvious.
50% of any sales of these prints will be donated to Waihora Ellesmere Trust to help with their ongoing restoration and protection work of the lake. If you would like to purchase a print please get in touch through my contact page.
Open edition platinum prints over silver leaf (42 x 36cm). Vellum material is plant based, acid free and FSC certified.
