Rākau

This work gives a view into the ngahere (forest), the healing energy of trees and their importance as life giving for land and people. The top work is above the earth and the bottom work is below the earth expressing the importance of soil for growing trees and the amazing eco-system that lives there.

This view into the forest I see often in my work. It is hopeful and how I would love the earth to be in the future, growing native trees again, bringing life back to our forests.

You will also see many wharenui in this work. The trees are also about our connection to where we come from, our place to stand and call home.

*wharenui - meeting house, home, a place to gather

Materials: Harakeke on harakeke paper. Untreated pine frame stained with native. (a deliberate act of reclamation of whenua and honouring rākau Māori)