Piwakawaka/Fantail (Sculpture)

About the artist

Robbie Nairn

Bay of Plenty based artist Robbie Nairn creates sculptural works that celebrate local fauna and the natural characteristics of native wood. The artist's native bird series present avian forms that elegantly emerge from their timber supports. 
 
The artist enjoys working with salvaged wood and timber sourced from iconic colonial buildings as well as naturally deposited driftwood, the timber itself is the starting inspiration for each sculpture. The provenance of each piece, with its cracks, scars and blemishes inspires the ultimate form of each work. The contrast of old and new is explored, where heavily weathered exteriors give way to silky smooth curves with rich colour and line. The dynamic and minimalist essence of each creature is captured, from the calm and graceful, to the watchful and stoic. 

Growing up amongst the trees in beachside New Zealand, Robbie became influenced by his natural surroundings from a young age. He exhibits his work in select galleries throughout New Zealand.