'Post-Whirinaki' - Tamati Holmes

Ngati Kahungunu.

Te Ati Awa.

My journey of Self-expression has been an ever-expanding array of patchwork fixes to overcome my numerous limitations and tendencies to say too much in one breath.

I’m thankful for the wisdom shared and time spent with teachers, mentors, whanau and peers alike; inspiration is cultivated through conversation and robust discussion, quiet observation and mindful consideration.

My art practice manifests in a similar vein, I work within a Māori construct utilizing and exploring classical designs and motifs to inform my work in a contemporary context responding to our ever-evolving narrative of life, and issues around the world.

Post-Whirinaki

Earth, sea, sky unite

Born from the tropics landing with no malintent.

Deeds compounded by man's mastery over the environment,

compounding the relentless deluge around us.

Our silt-laden environment lay testament to our resolve.

The disparity between town and country, Self-evident.

Begging for a response.

The call to arms was overwhelming...

A second deluge washing over us,

surging through our communities...

People helping people.

Anointed with silt

working side by side...

As one.