The King of Composition - Tim Tavaria

By Ella V Reid

Tattoo Artist and Nature photographer Tim Tavaria hosted his first solo show Horizons at the Compendium Gallery with opening night taking place on the 3rd of November.

Tim Tavaria is a Tattoo artist by trade, but he does not let that be the only creative method of expression. After picking up a camera only a year ago and using his inherent skills surrounding compositions and spacial awareness he has created an epic array of images of a subject matter he holds dear to his heart. Birds.

Without a team, specialised equipment, or predetermined plans, Tavaria ventures along nature trails in search of what he terms "Gifts from nature." He firmly believes that these unique moments can only be seized at the precise location and moment. In contrast to his stylised paintings and tattoos, his photographs are unembellished snapshots in time, preserving the extraordinary details and positioning of his subjects.

Dedicating his show to his friend he named Bill. The Raven who would visit Tavaria’s balcony daily during COVID lockdowns, Tavaria exhibits the hidden beauties and epic details of ornithology with this exhibition. 

With this style of exhibition being something relatively new to the Compendium Gallery, the team were thrilled to see the amazing responses the exhibition got as well as the sale of many prints. 

This exhibition and Tavaria’s methods are a prime example of ‘from the artist's hands’ as every single detail from taking the photo to the printing process is all done by Tavaria’s hands alone.

Curators Highlights

Tim Tavaria

Elanor (God is my light), 2023

Archival print on 210gsm textured cotton paper

$350 unframed

$850 framed

*edition of 5

This photograph is one of the most striking of the collection. The image is of a white Hawk

Though nature photography is not something new to the art world this photograph is a prime example of what sets Tavaria apart. The composition of this work is so mesmerising that it makes its audience question how Tavaria was able to get such a perfect shot without training and staging the bird in that position. 

The heavy detail that Tavaria has captured is also remarkable. As you get closer to the print, the viewer can see every single strand of the Hawks feathers and every bump in its feet.

Tim Tavaria

Mama Pūtakitaki, 2023

Archival print on 210/310gsm textured cotton paper

$350 unframed

$850 framed

*edition of 5

Large size

$1650 framed

*one only

This shot of a duck, though has an outstanding level of detail Tavaria encompasses in all his photographs, the composition of this photograph is outmatched. How earthy tone and the stark white of the ducks feathers collide to create this perfect harmonious line almost makes you question if these two parts come from the same animal.

Another element that makes this composition so impressive is the fact that Tavaria was able to candidly capture another duck in virtually the same position and arrangement, only in reverse. This work serves as Mama Pūtakitaki counterpart and is titled Papa Pūtakitaki

The Compendium Gallery is privileged to have presented Tim Tavaria’s inaugural solo exhibition, Horizons. We eagerly anticipate the future endeavours of this exceptional artist, and the creative journey that lies ahead.

Horizons was hosted at The Compendium Gallery from 3rd of November to the 18th of November 2023.

To view the catalogue please Click Here

For any enquiries please contact us at hello@compendiumgallery.com