‘I describe my art practice as ‘Social-Political’.
My work generally explores the darker side of the human animal and the world we have made. My work is about the ‘hard stuff’.
In terms of the making, I aim to make works that have a dark beauty to them, and that reflect skill and craft.
I make work that is contextual, well researched and thoughtful.
I am interested in the relationship with the viewer, and the way an artwork changes with each new viewing.
I hope to provoke thoughts and feelings in each viewer.
The theme of my work continues to be of a Social-Political nature, but my work has been evolving by addressing these themes not only through painting, but also through photography and sculpture. I have come to realise by becoming increasingly multi disciplinary in my practice I am able to engage with a larger group of viewers. I would equate this to someone who is multilingual, and the way this increases the amount of people they can have dialogue with.’
Bernie exhibits individually and as a member of ‘Habeas Corpus Collective’
He can be contacted at badwakk@xtra.co.nz
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| 'BEARS' (detail)- Tauranga Art Gallery |
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| ‘Studio’ – Auckland Festival of Photography |
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| ‘MATE: Possums and priests’ – Centre of Contemporary Art, Christchurch |
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| ‘PROXY’ - Satellite Gallery |
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| ‘HOT, HOT!’ Centre of Contemporary Art, Christchurch |
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| ‘In the eyes of the beholder’ – National Waikato Contemporary Art Award |
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