My latest mural “Flight of the Tūī & Kōkako” was created to captivate the imaginations of the students at Mercury Bay School, located on the beautiful eastern coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. I was kindly supplied a list from the local Iwi Ngati Hei on all the local manu and flora of the area. From here I was able to draw inspiration from the diverse local flora and fauna by selecting a few from the list and creating something bright and colourful for the kids of MBS.
This vibrant artwork is a celebration of the unique biodiversity that graces the region, incorporating elements of the Tūī and North Island Kōkako, two local birds in the area.
The Tūī, with its melodious song and striking plumage, symbolises the spirit of the local landscape, while the North Island Kōkako, known for its distinctive call, adds a touch of rarity and wonder. These two manu take centre stage, embodying the interconnectedness between the community and their natural surroundings.
The mural also features indigenous flora such as the Karo flower and pods, representing the coastal shrub found in the local area. The Whau flower, another local botanical, weaves seamlessly into the composition, creating a visual narrative that connects land and sky.