Kokotea - The Messenger
Mixed Media, Ready to hang
76cm (H) x 61cm (W) x4cm (D)
US $3200
Kokotea is one of the Maori words for the Tui. It is also called kōkō, while kokouri, kopurehe, kokotaua, and tute are said to be names for the male bird, kokotea, and kouwha for the female.
This magnificent bird is the most versatile songbird in the world, having a dual voicebox and a repertoire of 700, yes you read that right, 700 different sounds he can make, some of which are inaudible to the human ear! Apparently, he has even been known to mimic a mobile phone ring.
In Maori Lore, the Kokotea is revered as a messenger to the gods and is often associated with life fulfillment, confidence, and spiritual harmony. I chose the Tui as the first bird in this series for two reasons. Firstly, because he is a messenger to the gods, which falls nicely into alignment with my work on the Krystal Spiral. I am using my paintings as a vehicle to raise the vibration of our environment by calling in the energy of the Krystal spiral as I do these works.
And secondly, because he is one of my favourite birds. I am in love with the Tui's gorgeous song. When I visit NZ it is one of my great joys to sit on the deck and hear the local Tui's sing to me.
Abstract Realism
Abstract Realism is the Art form that is a marriage of two contradictory terms, Abstract art and Realistic art. Abstract art exists through patterns, colours, texture, and lines without the need for an external motivation. Realistic art consists of art that aims to replicate nature and objects in a real way such as a photograph might.
My work until now has been mostly one or the other and this work, is the first in my new series embracing Abstract Realism.
I am delighted to have made this transition in my work because I feel It has brought together the diverse elements of my work over the years and unified them into a stronger, unique representation of all the things I want to include in my work. This piece is a pivotal work in my career as an artist.