ICEBERG

Iceberg follows explorations into local wildlife and the geographical location of Foster’s home in Kaikoura, a world-renowned mecca for marine mammals. Meticulously finished in mirror polished stainless steel, Foster presents the iconic form of the New Zealand fur seal, which he first interpreted in ‘Kekeno’ (the Maori name for this species). Foster’s inspiration and enquiry stem both from a close connection to Kaikoura’s marine environment, and out of concern for indigenous species. 

“After the arrival of humans in New Zealand, and particularly with the onset of European settlers, hunting reduced the population to near-extinction. Since protection, fur seal numbers are recovering, with the first individual returning to Kaikōura in the 1960s. Since then Kaikoura is once again home to a thriving seal colony.”

Here Foster translates the seal form, which is represented through sculptural language akin to the faceted icy mountain peaks that form the dramatic backdrop of Kaikoura and his studio. Through a highly polished faceted fragmented surface, viewers are encouraged to see themselves within and as an integral part of nature, the reflective surface blurring the boundary between the natural and the manmade. 

Iceberg, 2021. Marine grade stainless steel. 1100 x 1100 x 1100mm. Series of 3 + 1 A/P.

Iceberg, 2021. Marine grade stainless steel. 1500 x 1500 x 1500mm. Series of 3. 

Iceberg, 2021. Aluminium, waterborne automotive paint. 900 x 900 x 900mm. Series of 3 + 1 A/P.