Final shots of my piece from @seawalls_ Tairāwhiti @pangeaseed 💙
The wave forming in stages internally through the deconstructed parts of the Sea lion represents the sea as the emotion of nature that is currently trying to communicate to us the effects of our destructive actions. Sea lion population numbers have halved and could halve and halve again until extinction within the years of my generation. We have the opportunity to collectively rise with this tide into a new state of awareness where we can live in harmony with nature and all her beings.
After I had sketched up the Sea Lion I discovered a leaking water pipe unintentionally positioned in the heart/shoulder of the Seal, I felt like it was significant so I painted a blue heart around it. We are all made of water.
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There was another moment that @vanessarushtonphotographyspontaneously captured on camera where a sparrow landed on the pipe and drank the heart water, only taking the tiny bit it needed.
The most amazing thing about this festival was the community of people that came together. So much love to the core team 👑@kell.sunshine 👑, @mrcinzah , Tre :), @artworkofkai , @crackedink , legendary volunteers, Gizzy locals and the best new and old artist friends for their epic work and good vibes.
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Special thanks to project partners Eastland Community Trust, JN Williams memorial trust, @gisbornedc, @resenecolour, Tairawhiti Environment Centre, Walter Findlay LTD, and to our sponsors
Martins Hiremaster, Hirepool Gisborne and Evolution Wireless.
Photos by
Portrait and in-camera double exposure by @emilyrafteryphotography