Water Marks w/ Kate van der Drift: January 19, 2024

Nestled within the Hauraki Plains, runs the Piako Awa – a large tidal river rich with bird life, saltwater, sediment, farm run-off, bacteria and algae. Kate van der Drift’s Water Marks are photographic works that engage with the awa and are currently displayed digitally in public places across Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

These photographs are the result of 'river exposures' – a process created by the artist that involves submerging large format negatives into the river for a 2-4 week period. Each work captures a unique interaction between the film emulsion and the environment of the Piako.

To hear more about the works, Frances caught up with artist Kate van der Drift.