Conor Clarke Graduated from Elam School of Fine Arts in May 2005, and since then has been based in Auckland working as an artist and freelance photographer.

Show Number 9: 13.August - 9.October 2005

Oamaru Hedge: Exceeds 100 years of age (2005)

A hedge can structurally be seen as a compromise- a piece of architecture imposed upon the land through a colonially derived desire for shelter, privacy and demarcation of territory. But materially a hedge is part of the natural world, and in this way it is much less imposing than a fence, it defines a space as well as allowing nature to enter into it.

The ‘Oamaru hedge’ is by all means an element of nature, but one that exists purely through the creation and control its owner has over it. Subsequent to this creation comes a responsibility, a requirement, a societal expectation to regularly maintain it. The pleasure attained via fulfilling this obligation therefore outweighing the laborious process that contributes to the hedges’ continuing existence in its current/ intended form.
One’s front garden is often considered an extension of the home, and it is in this way that it inevitably reflects upon its owner. One can therefore take pride in maintaining such an immaculate hedge- it becomes normalising, and thus accounts for the prevalence of their kind on our New Zealand landscape.

The decided flawless appearance of the ‘Oamaru hedge’ in this situation however has been overshadowed by an existing plant variety situated in its neighbouring property. This sight proves to be significantly irritating due to its apparent lack of structure- an intrusion upon this otherwise ideal residential setting.

Conor Clarke (2005)

Conor Clarke

1. Oamaru Hedge: Exceeds 100 Years of Age

Price: $1000
Media: Colour Digital Print
Edition: 1/5
Dimension: 1200 x 750 mm