Artist Statement: Wings and Whispers is a series of five paintings inspired by my journeys along the Rakiura, Hump Ridge, Milford, Abel Tasman, and Tongariro Northern Circuit tracks. The abundance of birdlife in these remote areas never ceases to amaze me, and I often feel compelled to reach out my hand, hoping one might land. This series also features a Monarch Butterfly, my favourite, which brings back childhood memories of watching them fluttering and wishing they would land on me. A Dragonfly is also included, inspired by their graceful movement along streams and their delicate beauty when sunlight passes through their transparent wings.
A short video
An edited down look at the starting process of "Trust".
My Process
I frequently generate ideas during walks along nearby nature trails. I intentionally choose to walk in silence, refraining from listening to music or podcasts, which allows me to reflect and think creatively.
I often reflect on the wonders and mysteries of nature, and how we relate to them through stories and traditions about the symbolic meanings of birds, animals, and insects that have been handed down over generations. This is what ignites the creative spark behind my artwork.
My use of colour is inspired by Borque and impressionist art, and I work in an abstract realism style for creative freedom. This approach lets me amplify colours and adjust subject sizes, which I see as a key advantage of artistic expression.
My paintings are developed through a mixed media approach. I begin by applying multiple layers of water-based materials, such as acrylic inks, paints, marker pens, spray paints, and pencils, which serve to establish depth and visual intrigue.
For the final stages, I utilise oil paints and solid oil sticks to define my subjects, leveraging the rich pigmentation and vibrancy of oil mediums to enliven the overall composition.
Symbols and Artistic Intentions.
Throughout this series, I have come to realise that the subjects I choose to paint each carry unique symbolic meanings.
Birds represent freedom; butterflies symbolise transformation and the journey of life; the stag stands for wisdom and guidance; moths embody vulnerability and resilience; flowers reflect love, beauty, and rebirth; bees are a symbol of healing; and the rabbit signifies vulnerability, new life, and abundance.
I am drawn to vibrant colours, and as the collection has evolved, I have become increasingly fascinated by capturing the glow of light as it plays through and around the subjects.
I hope that viewers can find solace and inspiration in my artworks, perhaps even choosing a piece to bring into their own home as a gentle reminder to pause, find quiet, and spark conversation—adding colour and intrigue to their living spaces.
