If this land could speak: Human ecology and the work of Nic Moon

Abstract

Abstract The land has traditionally been a focus for New Zealand artists, for sculptors as well as for painters. Since the latter part of the twentieth century, artists have been increasingly articulate about issues around conservation and the ways that humankind interacts with the environment/human ecology. A leading artist in this approach is contemporary New Zealand sculptor and painter Nic Moon. Working often in remote parts of New Zealand, Moon observes the natural environment, asking what each specific place has seen and experienced, and choosing materials and processes that speak of the immediate terrain and the human stories of that place. As well as working with local communities and indigenous groups, she collaborates with scientists and ecologists to create intricately crafted sculptural works. Combined with dramatic lighting these artworks provide theatrical and immersive experiences. This report focuses on projects in which Moon addresses aspects of New Zealand’s environmental history. Whether gallery or outdoor installations, temporary or permanent art works, the inspiration behind Moon’s creative practice work remains constant. She draws attention to the enormity of the task facing conservationists, particularly those working to preserve Fiordland, a vast and remote area of World Heritage landscape, the ‘jewel in the crown’ of New Zealand’s great wilderness National Parks. There are two distinct aspects to these artworks. The first is the inspiration provided by conservation projects. The second makes reference to human intervention in the land, spotlighting historical and contemporary settlement, farming and hunting practices. Through it all, Moon weaves together the threads of her research on the natural environment, deforestation and human transformation of the land.