This artwork is a continuation of our mural from last years’ Matariki FOL and pays homage to the unique geography and flora/fauna that form part of the Taranaki region, and to New Zealand species that are no longer with us. Painted with a popping palette of neon aerosol the mural was once again black lit during the festival, so at night the artwork glowed and came alive.
Heroed this time with the extinct South Island Kōkako, the bird makes reference to a bygone era, much the same as the forgotten Huia do, from the earlier 2022 mural.
The Gold Striped Gecko (a Taranaki resident) has made an appearance, twisting and turning itself around the natural shapes that the architecture provides, while a native Kōtare flaps it’s wings around the bend of the stairs.
The Kamahi Walk is an ancient setting set in the foothills of Mt Taranaki and forms the basis of inspiration of this artwork as a whole. Fantastical goblin-like faces, peering eyeballs and enchanted creatures follow the viewer, while native flora and fauna bring a nature twist to this urban environment.