As part of their coursework in COMD211 Tuhi Pikitia I Drawing I, Te Herenga Waka University students recently had the unique opportunity to visit Te Papa for a session led by Curator Art Lizzie Bisley, focused on the rich history of animal illustration. Held in an intimate reading room, the visit was an inspiring deep dive into Te Papa’s collection of historical drawings, rare books and prints. Here, Lecturer Jelena Rukavina Vuckovic talks about the visit.
Lizzie began the session by walking students through a selection of animal illustrations from the museum’s collection. These included many different animal illustrations and prints dating back to the sixteenth century. She offered context and insights, pointing out the cultural and scientific significance behind each work, the purpose it served, and the methods used to create it. Students were encouraged to engage with the collection by selecting one illustration that resonated with them personally.
Each student reflected on their chosen piece – some were drawn to the fine detail of scientific fish illustrations, while others found a whimsical charm in depictions from animal fables.
Lizzie was deeply attentive to the students’ observations. She listened thoughtfully and responded with stories about the illustrators, the tools they used, and the historical moments that shaped their work.
Inspired by the historical techniques and visual approaches they’d seen, students then moved to Te Taiao | Nature on Te Papa’s second floor. There, they each selected a live animal exhibit and created their own illustrations, drawing upon what they had learned – whether it was a specific drawing style, a way of observing the animal, or a texture that made an impact on them.
In their reflections following the visit, students shared thoughtful comments:
“The scientific drawings of fish were so precise, but still beautiful.”
“Seeing the prints from Captain Cook’s voyage gave me chills. You could feel the awe those early artists had when they saw these animals for the first time.”
“Lizzie’s explanations made me think differently about the purpose behind each illustration – not just how it looks, but why it was made.”
View some of the students’ work
What an inspiring way to connect art, history, and nature! The students’ reflections show how powerful it is to see scientific precision and creative expression side by side. I especially love how they carried those lessons into their own illustrations at Te Taiao.
Charming post! Celebrating the clever weka through art is such a joyful way to connect with Aotearoa’s unique taiao (environment). Beautiful blend of culture and nature!