Holding On

Holding On. New Exhibition 3rd to 29th of September, Estuary Arts Centre. Orewa.

Opening Event Sat 7th Sept 3 to 5pm All Welcome

One Pōhutukawa holds on to the crumbling ever changing rock face, lashed by stormy seas and wild salty winds. I see you holding on, pushing your roots into the cliff and anchoring yourself. I marvel at your determination to weather the storms. You look back across the expanse and vastness of the ocean and sky.

Each time I return I am holding on too.  To the light, space, life giving energy; the reflections of self and air to breathe, holding on to this precious land as much as you.

Eastern beaches in the Hauraki Gulf see the sun rise and rain storms sweep in. There is a light that is magical. One Pōhutukawa holds on to the cliff face, it prevails. 

In this collection of work I respond to the life force of the east coast beaches of the Hauraki Gulf, as they battle climate change. I am privileged to be near to this beautiful coast line and it’s ever changing moods and weather. There is one tree that clings on to the cliff face, out in the distance defying everything, the winds and storms that roll in off the Pacific Ocean. I have witnessed cliff falls and king tides, seen the destruction one storm can make on the surrounding landscape. I feel that nature is looking back at us.

From initially starting with charcoal studies I have developed to a more abstract form. I have enjoyed this journey of discovery with new materials, incorporating cold wax, oil sticks and collage. I hope to share the emotion I feel about this place, this expanse of land that is fragile.

Please come along to the opening event on September the 7th at 3pm. I look forward to discussing my inspiration and how I further develop my work. Estuary Arts Centre is an inspiring gallery with plenty to see and a cafe too!