Lost explores the moments in life that leave people vulnerable, heartbroken and in despair. This exhibition brings together the evocative works of two artists, each offering a different perspective of loss
Artist Statments
Oliver Parrant
Oliver's artistic journey is deeply rooted in themes of loss and growth, with art serving as a form of organic therapy and self-reflection. His practice has been shaped by a commitment to exploring the emotional depths of grief, using creative expression as a tool for healing.
In his latest project, "Grief that Speaks," Oliver delves into the human experience, collaborating with individuals from diverse backgrounds to capture the complex tapestry of their stories. Through his work, he translates the nuances of suffering and the subsequent opportunities for growth onto canvas, creating a powerful narrative of resilience.
For Oliver, art is more than just a medium; it’s a means to facilitate healing, support meaningful dialogue, and nurture connections. His work invites viewers to engage with their own emotions, fostering a collective space for reflection and growth.
Helen Pinson
Helen’s drawings are made in response to media images of current conflicts across the world. She is questioning how she can address these horrors for longer than the short time they are on a screen. In making her drawings she is commenting on the absence of humans. and referring to their displacement by looking at the spaces, homes, where they have been, and where they can no longer be. Her mark-making reflects the emotional response she has to the original photographs. Anger. Shock. Sadness. Empathy.
Supporting designers
Alexa Inch
Alexa is a 4th year spatial design student working as a designer in the design and build industry. She is passionate about interior design and creating concepts for clients. For Alexa spatial design is about creating comfortable and functional living environments.
It’s been important to help Oliver and Helen display their work how they envision it and insure it all comes together as smoothly as possible. Her roles in exhibition has been spatial planning, invitations, maps/plans and documentation. And a vital member of the team contributing to “Lost”
Riley Jakeman
Riley is a 4th year spatial design student. Her focus lies strongly on interior design and creating functional spaces for people and communities. For Riley, spatial design is about creating spaces that act as experiences, where people are able to feel comfortable and at home. Working with Oliver and Helen in the spatial design aspect of this exhibition has allowed her to gain experience with client collaboration and communication. Riley has had roles in the spatial planning of the exhibition, designing the catalogue and also preparing the food and drink for the event.
Katie Tucker
Katie is a 4th-year Spatial Design student focusing strongly on residential design. Her passion lies in interior and kitchen design, where she strives to create functional, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing spaces for people to live and thrive. For Katie, spatial design is about crafting environments that blend practicality with beauty, enhancing the experience of those who inhabit them. Collaborating with Oliver and Helen has been a significant aspect of my studies at Massey University. This experience allowed me to gain valuable insights into "client-business" interactions. While developing an exhibition that incorporated key spatial design decisions and effective advertising strategies.
