ANDREW RANKIN

Andrew Rankin (b.1981 Te Whanganui-a-Tara) is based in Tāmaki Makaurau. Completing a MFA at the University of Auckland with 1st Class Honours in 2019. Since then Rankin has been the recipient of several awards such as the Molly Morpeth Canady Award (2nd place 2022 and a merit award 2025) and the Estuary Art and Ecology Award (merit 2023) as well as being awarded the Connells Bay Sculpture Trust Graduate Studio Residency at TeTuhi in 2019.

Rankin’s practice offers a unique conceptual framework that situates itself somewhere between sculptural assemblage and conceptual photography. An illusionistic space is automatic in the reproduced image, and Rankin enhances this illusion through subtle manipulations of his presentations. The conceptual relationship between frame and image, for example, is ever present in his practice. Rankin has a desire to lengthen the gaze, see more closely and foster new connections.

Andrew Rankin, A new vivid succession, 2025

Installation view: LAGOON, Artor Contemporary 2025

A sculpture exploring classical elements of framing, transparency, chatoyance and stacking. The totara is recycled from 1960s wood paneling.

1485mm x 500mm x 540mm

Recent Duo Exhibition: Andrew Rankin and Ed Bats, LAGOON, Artor Contemporary, 9 - 31 May 2025

The body of work in this show predominantly makes use of Rewarewa I was fortunate to acquire, milled some 40 years ago from a fallen tree. The timber was often used in tourist objects such as ‘sovereign ware’ as a veneer in colonial furniture and as picture frames. Known for its beautifully figured grain, it is a challenging timber to work with. The works explore ideas around image and frame. The large scale work ‘Elbow elbow elbow’ utilizes the frame as a disruptive collage device, increasing its relevance as image.