The Disasters of War (Deaf like Goya)

Michael Shepherd
The Disasters of War (Deaf like Goya)

November - December 2024 @ Two Rooms Gallery

"Amongst the many things that we know, yet often fail to recognise, the real consequences of war on the populace are frequently buried beneath political discourse or bold statements of heroism and intent. 
 
Akin to Goya, who cut straight through this in his series, The Disasters of War, Michael Shepherd’s latest works show the silent reality faced by New Zealand’s threatened flora. Many endangered species, like Olearia adenocarpa, Carmichaelia muritai, Myosotis brevis and Poa spania endure in small, often highly modified fragments that sit firmly outside the public view (and imagination). This series is a rare example of an artist taking aim at the anonymity that represents one of conservation’s major quandaries." 
https://tworooms.co.nz/exhibitions/the-disasters-of-war/

A series of works on paper, painter with acrylic polymer. Most of the paintings are are on a rare or endangered species. Most have the Latin name of the plant included in the painting, and the plants appear in a barren, dry landscape.

I spoke to Michael and asked about the reference to 'Deaf like Goya'. Apparently Goya was deaf like Beethoven, but other senses were more intense - like sight. I may get the chance to visit the Kopuatai Peat Dome on the Hauraki Plains with Michael and botanist friends.