Jonathan Kay
Lecturer
Jonathan Kay’s practice focuses on blurring the boundaries of art and science to render the unseen and challenge notions of landscape. In the last five years, he has have developed this research area to encompass a methodology of photographic interventions within the landscape that are site-specific and responsive. Complementing this mode of inquiry is his ongoing active engagement with climate change concerns and how photography can be used strategically to synthesise information into visualisations that facilitate an emotional response.
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Expertise
Photography, cameraless photography, environmental art, science and art, photographic installation, photographic technology, photography and criticism, landscape and place.
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Recent research successes
Cryosphere (2022)
Cryosphere is a photographic exhibition by Jonathan Kay that contemplates the fragility of our landscapes through the surveying of two Te Waipounamu glaciers; Haupapa/Tasman and Te Moeka o Tūawe/Fox. It was exhibited at Ashburton Art Gallery from 5 February – 6 March 2022, and at Jhana Millers Gallery from 24 March – 23 April 2022.
Negative Mass (2019)
Commissioned by Britomart in conjunction with Gus Fisher Gallery, Negative Mass is an investigation of the relationships between science and art. Made with simple materials, it speaks to a poignant and layered issue we are confronted with on a global scale: the gradual melting of ice caps and glaciers in this age of climate change. It was first exhibited in the atrium at Takutai Square, Britomart, Auckland from 10 July – 7 September 2019.
WAI - Manga Maha, Awa Kotahi | One River, Many Streams (2019)
Jonathan’s work was included in the group exhibition WAI at Aratoi -Wairarapa, Museum of Art and History, Masterton. On display from 30 March - 26 May 2019, WAI sought to reconnect the Wairarapa community with its waterways and to advocate for the rivers of the region.
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Qualifications
- Masters of Fine Arts - Massey University (2013)
- Bachelor of Design (Photography) Honours - Massey University (2009)
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Professional affiliations or service roles
- Member, and Lead Contact for Massey University, International Environmental Arts Research Network
- Member, Te Waituhi ā Nuku / Drawing Ecologies
