It is common to hear people expressing their love for animals, but not many carry the passion and dedication to care for them as deeply as Annemieke Kregting does. For many years, Annemieke ran the Bird Rescue in Kūaotunu, and it is no surprise to hear “Yes, I’ve taken an injured bird to Annemieke before” in our community.
During a recent visit to Annemieke’s place, where the Bird Rescue once operated, I was greeted by a delightful transformation. What was once a haven for feathered companions now boasts an array of plates, mugs and whiteware adorned with intricate mosaic artwork. Annemieke’s journey from bird rescuer to mosaic artist is as fascinating as her creations.
Annemieke’s inspiration for mosaic art stems from her experiences living in the Coromandel and working with wildlife. “Through my work with wildlife, I am lucky to have observed and gotten close to various different species,” she explains. “I learned their body anatomy, feather structure, the way they move, characteristics, and their facial expressions, which I am using to make each mosaic as real as possible”.
Learning the art of mosaic from Anne Bowden in Whitianga, Annemieke developed her unique style using mainly china crockery, much of it collected from op shops. “Using recycled material is an important part of my art,” she notes. “Making beautiful objects that pay tribute to the natural world reminds me to slow down and reconnect with our environment.”
“Making beautiful objects that pay tribute to the natural world reminds me to slow down and reconnect with our environment.”
When asked about her creative process, Annemieke reveals a blend of spontaneity and meticulous craftsmanship. “Sometimes I know what I want to create and look for the right materials. Other times I find the materials first and make something with them.” she shares. “I don’t use any patterns but cut the crockery with tools as I go, constantly looking at it from a distance to see if it is in proportion. I look up various images of the subject online and choose the colour of one, and sometimes the shape of another. Often removing the pieces again to reposition them.”
Challenges arise in sourcing natural colours, which are essential for capturing the essence of birds and wildlife. “They are hard to source. In the 70s and 80s, crockery was more colourful, and often browns and greens were used,” Annemieke explains. “For example, Crown Lynn is very useful but it’s also a collector’s item so I can often only get hold of damaged articles.” (Crown Lynn Potteries was a ceramics company that operated in New Zealand between 1854 and 1989.)
Despite these challenges, Annemieke finds inspiration all around her, particularly in the diverse wildlife of the Coromandel region. “I am inspired by other wildlife artists, whether they make sculptures, jewellery or paintings,” she shares. “I have gotten to know many artists through Mercury Art Escape who share the same passion for our environment.”
“I am inspired by other wildlife artists, whether they make sculptures, jewellery or paintings.”
Among the many species Annemieke likes to portray in her mosaics, the kererū holds a special place. “I have made many kererū mosaics. They are a fascinating species,” she remarks. “Because I have handled many kererū in my time, I also know their goofy characters – and their colours are so beautiful up close that I want to bring them back in my mosaics.”
Annemieke’s dedication to using recycled materials underscores her commitment to sustainability. “These things are going all into landfill if not used again, so why not make art instead?” she asks. “It’s good for the soul!”.
Rescuing birds over such a long time has given Annemieke the opportunity to meet and work with some incredible people, and the future holds exciting opportunities and projects for her. “Through my work with birds, I am part of a network of wildlife veterinarians and rehabbers. One of my veterinarian friends works with kākāpō at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari. I have been asked to make a kākāpō mosaic for their annual fundraising day this year, and in return, I will be introduced to a real one! It’s definitely an item on my bucket list …”
Balancing artistic interpretation with the natural characteristics of birds and animals is another aspect of Annemieke’s creative process. “I sometimes make a piece that isn’t true to colour and size,” she explains. “For example, sea mammals – I can’t make them life-size as I would have to rent a warehouse! So a whale or dolphin can be made in any size, and I can be creative and utilise every bit of the crockery like patterns on the plates and handles on a cup.”
For aspiring artists interested in exploring mosaic art or incorporating wildlife themes into their work, Annemieke offers sage advice. “Start with some art classes. You learn the basics, and from there, you can develop your own style,” she advises. “Often you can find inspiration in your own environment and the natural world around you.”
Through her art, Annemieke Kregting not only celebrates the beauty of wildlife but also encourages others to embrace creativity and sustainability in their own artistic endeavours.
Annemieke collaborates with Coromind magazine, sharing inspiring pieces about local birds and wildlife. You can find one of her articles in our Issue 13 (‘Bird Rescue SOS – How to Assist Baby Birds in Distress’) on www.coromind.nz, and more of her pieces will be published soon!
Additionally, you can listen to Annemieke’s chat with the ALTBAYS Table Talk podcast team. Go to YouTube or your favourite audio platform and search for: Annemieke Kregting (Kūaotunu Bird Rescue Trust) – ALTBAYS Show #124.
words by Leonardo Magri
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