Ngā ringatoi i te whare o mua Previous artists in residence

2024 Artist in Residence — Kate van der Drift

Photographer Kate van der Drift was our Artist in Residence for 2024. She was based at Waitawa Regional Park from November to December.

During her residency she created 'cameraless' images of native plants using the light from the sun and natural chemicals from the plants.

Kate also explored and experimented with prints of invasive weeds, inspired by current restoration works at the park. In addition, she created a series of eerily beautiful photos of the park using only the light of the moon.

One of the works she created at Waitawa Bach will stay in the bach permanently for future visitors to enjoy.

Video of Kate van der Drift's residency experience

Dion Hitchens was based at Tāwharanui Regional Park.

During his residency he:

• photographed underwater life in the rock pools
• created sculptures inspired from creatures he discovered.

Video of Dion Hitchens' residency experience

Cassandra Barnett explored Anawhata, Waitākere Regional Park collecting stories, sounds, impressions and ideas for her poetry. She created many bilingual poems to ‘mark moments and evoke relationships.’

This Anawhata-infused work is now compiled into a series of themed zines with covers painted by Cassandra.

Video of Cassandra Barnett's residency experience 

Elizabeth Welsh is fascinated by wetlands, in particular those at Āwhitu Regional Park.

As a keen observer, professional wordsmith and poet, she creates evocative and intimate portraits of these ever-evolving habitats.

Video of Elizabeth Welsh's residency experience

​Watch more Auckland Artists in Residence's videos on our YouTube channel.