New Zealand fauna is one of the most interesting evolutionary cases in the world bio-geographically speaking because of the virtual absence of mammals in the islands until the arrival of Polynesian migrations, and English colonizers later on. The limited rivalry in the chain of predation produced the miniaturization and the inability to fly of some bird species, and the severe enlargement of others.
I reproduced the registered totality of these extinct birds -as result of hunting and the introduction of alien species- in tin soldier-like metal miniatures, a traditionally Western practice, adding a second entry point from which colonial history could be approached within the work.
This work was part of a two-venue exhibition at Artspace (Auckland) and Enjoy (Wellington) in New Zealand.
60 metal pieces.
Variable dimensions.
Produced by Artspace, Auckland and Enjoy, Wellington.
With the assistance of Oscar Garduño, Ulises Figueroa and Manuel Gonzalez. Based
on New Zealand birds online.