Art and Forest
The lush forest at Pukekura in New Plymouth, Taranaki, is a generative space for Leighton
Upson. He paints there, in a particular spot, as the kererū sleep, and make mischief by
dropping sticks on his head from the large kohekohe trees above.
Upson has formed a profound connection with a particular grove, searching for, blending with, and revealing the variety of differences. Upson immerses himself in this natural environment, reflecting that it is part of the last remaining 5% of this country’s lowland forest. In exploring the relationship between vitality and expression, he seeks to create new ecological symbols. The viewer is invited to consider for themselves – what is your relationship with local native plants and your Aotearoa botanical identity?
Upson’s family were fortunate to continue the preservation and protection of an ancient
grove of native lowland forest in coastal Taranaki. Growing up amongst the lively
greenness was incredibly affecting and has inspired his creative and philosophical
exploration. Continuing with a Ph.D., he explores the potential of painting, questions
landscapes, and delves into the intersection of his phenomenological philosophies with
art, ecological aesthetics and native forest ecology. This involves confronting the generic,
distanced and impersonal representations of forests, advocating for a more vibrant and
personalised portrayal.
These artworks recognise our responsibilities to the ecology we coexist with.
Through paying attention to the plants via his in-situ painted meditations, Upson’s
awareness of the local flora and fauna is heightened.
This exhibition seeks to exemplify the restoration of the relationship with our local
plants, which are home to an abundance of small animals, including holes for wētā.
Our forests, imbued with life, exist in interconnectedness and team with
biodiversity. Key symbols embody kohekohe, pukatea and tawa - among the most
commonplace native trees in lowland Taranaki. This artwork aims to encourage
environmental consciousness, awareness of the local lowland forest, and a sense
of caring and belonging to local forest.
This is Leighotn’s second solo show with Astor Bristed Gallery. His works are held
in private collections in New Zelaand, Australia, USA, England, France and Holland
currently.
