Wings from the South

“Wings from the South” is an artistic project aiming to create a macro photographic record of bird plumage from Chile, New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia.

The project’s initial exhibitions, “Müpü Chülle” and “Feathers from the Forest,” are the ones in this gallery, showcasing its early progress. It aims to establish a visual dialogue between these regions' indigenous and contemporary cultures, using art as a universal language to merge art, science, and culture. Endemic species are central to indigenous worldviews, where birds are seen as messengers of the gods and nature.

Feathers from Chile & New Zealand

Soft focus macro Photograph of the primary feathers of the New Zealand bird Kererū, featuring blue and green colours.

This project seeks to share these messages and highlight the role of birds in contemporary cultures.

Techniques Used in Macro Photography:

Macro photography allows for selective focus, enabling the creation of different planes through focus control. The project prioritizes minimizing post-editing, aiming to capture the birds’ natural colors during the photographic session. Post-production focuses on cleaning images of particles or impurities, especially considering that some specimens have been preserved for centuries in collections.

Cultural Significance of Birds:

In indigenous cultures, birds symbolize the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds, acting as messengers and representations of freedom, power, and transformation. Their presence in myths, rituals, and art reflects these cultures' deep admiration and respect for the avian kingdom. “Wings from the South” aims to honor and share these meanings through its work, enriching these species' cultural and scientific understanding.