The Denniston Plateau

Denniston

 

 

 

 

I made these knittings of our giant native snails Powelliphanta Patrickensis to support the fight against open-cast coal mining on the Denniston Plateau.  Unfortunately the government has given the go ahead for a new open-cast coal mine which will destroy 200hectares of a unique rocky plateau on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand. 

The giant snail, the green geko and the great spotted kiwi are just some of the rare and unique species found amongst the unusual rock formations on the Plateau.  Powelliphanta Patrickensis is only found on the Buller Coal Plateau and is gradually loosing it's home, attempts are being made to translocate its cousin  Powelliphant augusta from the neighbouring Stockton Plateau, but so far they have failed. 

 

 

 

 

All images are copyright to Frances Jill Studd 





Mantlle at Tivoli

New Work by New Zealand artist Frances Jill Studd

 

 

Mantle

 All images copyright Jill Studd 2013

Mantle is the title of a new series of photographs.

 

This photo is a mantua the form of which evolved in the late seventeenth century.  They began as a loose overdress but developed into very formal court wear of the style and shape of this one.  This is what fascinates me, by the very design of such a garment the wearer becomes restricted in both movement and attitude.  We are immediately aware of her status and of the expense of such elaborately embelished clothing and that it is only suited to a formal gathering with those who are similarly dressed.  The wearer cannot be seen but is still present.

All the photographs in this series look at clothing as symblols, symbols of power and status and seduction.  Who wore the garments and why is a mystery, but they retain a sense of time and purpose.  I have re-worked found materials and images to create these photos, they will be on exhibition at Tivoli in Oneroa, Waiheke Island from late August.