05 Apr 2017
Māori visual artist Charlotte Graham will soon be inspired by the stunning natural and cultural environment of southern Chile when she takes up a residency there from 10 April – 7 May.
Charlotte will be based at Bosque Pehuén, the Fundación’s private conservation area, which is known for its freshwater lakes, rainforest and volcanoes.
Her visit will be the first in the newly established Fundación Mar Adentro residency programme, which is a partnership with Creative New Zealand’s International Indigenous exchange programme.
A prolific artist, Charlotte has drawn on her tribal heritage to explore critical issues affecting indigenous New Zealand society. This opportunity will help her to continue work that has become part of a wider conversation about how environmental issues affect indigenous people.
Charlotte is familiar with the international environment, having spoken on numerous environmental panels and indigenous gatherings including the 2007 Indigenous Artists’ Gathering in Hawaii.
The programme, which links artists and scientists with nature and the local indigenous Mapuche community, came about after Beatriz Bustos, the Fundación’s Director of Art, Culture and Education, visited New Zealand in 2015 as part of Creative New Zealand’s international visit programme, Te Manu Ka Tau. The Auckland Art Gallery worked closely with the Fundación to establish the residency and advised on artist selection.
About the Fundación Mar Adentro
Fundación Mar Adentro is a private foundation based in Santiago, Chile. It aims to promote the value of natural and cultural heritage in society through initiatives involving art, nature and education.
The Fundación believes collaborative work and the integration of multidisciplinary teams involving science and art is key in educating and creating awareness of the natural and cultural environment.
About Te Manu Ka Tau
Creative New Zealand’s Te Manu Ka Tau: Flying Friends programme is designed to increase awareness of New Zealand and its arts, to build relationships with international partners and to develop international audiences and markets for New Zealand work.