Luther Ashford

Contention in Taranaki over attempts to unsustainably mine iron sand has reached a stand still. For years,Tranz-Tasman Resources have discretely pursued permits to excavate up to 50 million tonnes of sand annually for 20 years. This process of mineral excavation is irrespective of marine flora, fauna and species in the immediate and surrounding areas, with the entirety of the seabed projected to be collateral damage as 90% of the sediment is returned to the sea floor after the mere 10% of iron ore within has been extracted.

Taranaki iwi, mana whenua, our local communities and environmental activists have worked tirelessly to draw attention to, and indefinitely halt the attempted exploitation of iron ore off our coasts. Being personally involved in contributing to protests and fundraising has resulted in a development of works that range from moving and static digital imagery, to large scale mural installations. Irrespective of medium, these works reflect cultural values and social commentary associated with this environmental and political saga from a local level perspective.