Tania Patterson - Confessionals 2020

Tania Patterson 2020

Tania Patterson - Kawau/Black Shag (Cedar box, recycled frames, repurposed timber venetian blinds slats; birds: wood, metal, paint, H255 x W210 x D110mm) NZ$1750

Tania Patterson - Tuturiwhatu/Dotterel (Cedar box, recycled frames, repurposed timber venetian blinds slats; birds: wood, metal, paint, H270 x W220 x D110mm) NZ$1750

Tania Patterson - Parera/Grey Duck (Cedar box, recycled frames, repurposed timber venetian blinds slats; birds: wood, metal, paint, H165 x W165 x D110mm) NZ$1750

Tania Patterson - Riroriro / Grey Warbler, 2019 (Box- pine, recycled picture frame; Bird- apricot wood, bronze feet, paint; 175 x 225 x 90mm) NZ$1750

Whisper your sins, your regrets, your desires to the wind, or a bird or an imaginary god.

What is it you revere?

Ask for forgiveness The bold bright eye watches.

All forgiving Unforgiving. “The idea of confessing came to me while out walking one day, I found myself silently apologizing for our sins against nature. Never has there been a time when our crimes against nature have been so pertinent. I have never set foot in a confessional and I do not believe in god, but I do like the aesthetic and ambiance of churches, these quiet places of contemplation and reflection. When we travelled in Italy a few years ago, I was struck by the extraordinary lengths people went to, to honour god, the beautiful painting and incredible cathedrals, the passion and dedication. So, in my own small and godless way, I honour these small creatures, these taonga, I show my love for nature. These works are not without humour, I like to imagine in an anthropomorphic way what personality each bird has, who is wise, thoughtful, insightful (I did not do a Tui because I think he would be a bit self-absorbed and not a good listener) I like the absurdity of confessing to a lifeless bird and the idea that they might be some kind of conduit to god. It is of course futile and absurd but nonetheless it brings me a kind of peace. There are questions here of what we value, revere, trust but also who are we? what have we done? and what will we do now.�

Tania Patterson, 2019