In the norther reaches of NZ’s north island, Northland’s Hokianga is a place of overlapping histories, different cultures in a shared history, cradled in a potent land. It is where Kupe, a Polynesian first landed in ancient Māori history. The hills and shores are filled with creations stories and gods. It is where missionaries arrived with more gods…followed by a wave of colonization and political turmoil. It is the place where the past and family identity hold strong. It is the “Returning Place”.

I am here as a visitor, in residence at the Church, to make artwork in response to this most profound place. The task is overwhelming, and one that puts all of my skills as both an observer and an artist
Heaven for a traditional landscape painter, beauty in every direction!

My work goes beyond immediate visual observation. The paintings peel away typical layers and use unexpected colors to access a sense of movement and musicality. There is so much here! Every nook has history, legends, and powerful existing natural elements..

I’m looking for the essence of a place. Figuring out how to translate it into visual works that do it justice is the challenge.