The painting is a large piece of medium weight canvas, using 3 large contemporary patterns to represent ritorito (the protection of the parents – two outer koru, to the sibling – middle koru). The inspiration was to create a sense of security and growth and to enforce this i included the whakatauki (Maori Proverb), Whaia [...]
This painting is based on the kowhaiwhai pattern, i enjoyed doing this piece and like the bright colours and textured background using heavy coats of gesso. I painted this as a learning curve so i could get used to the feel of painting. I can’t paint landscapes or people to save myself so i am [...]
I dig the grungy rustic look with koru patterns, so i went for it in the background on this painting which was a gift for a newly wedded couple. I asked my sister in law who is studying for a diploma in Raranga (Maori weaving) to weave me some mini harakeke (nz flax) baskets to [...]
Te Whanganui a Tara – version 1 This piece is titled, Te Whanganui a tara which is based on the Maori legend of how the wellington harbour of New Zealand was created. The two taniwha from left to right are Ngaki and Whataitai, the three peaks in the middle represent the three islands in the [...]