This painting had been in my heart for over 12 months before I finally created it, inspired by a trip to New Zealand. She is part of a series called Women of Influence.
Princess and the Tui Birds is the first in this series.
At the beginning of 2020, while on a surf trip with my son, I encountered a statue perched on the edge of a cliff, overlooking the stunning surf coast of Piha, New Zealand. After speaking with a few locals, I learned that this woman had visited the shores of Piha over 600 years ago and was regarded as an inspiration to many in the region. She brought harmony, peace, and unity to various tribes—a message I felt compelled to paint, reimagining her story in a contemporary form and reigniting her legacy.
Piha is a pristine surf coast, famous for its incredible black, sparkling sand. The moment I stepped onto this magical landscape, I felt an overwhelming sense of connection and presence. That same day, three stunning monarch butterflies landed on me, a moment that felt deeply significant.
The coast is protected by a dense rainforest, with a waterway that runs from the forest to the mouth of the surf beach. The locals call this the waters of Keke, named after the woman who sits on the cliff. This place holds special meaning for many and remains a constant source of inspiration.
In my painting, Keke is adorned with rainforest leaves in her hair and an abundance of New Zealand’s native flowers, including the mānuka tea tree flower and the native red mistletoe. I have also incorporated Australian flowering gums. These elements serve a purpose in the piece, symbolising the connection and spirituality we find in nature. Nature grounds us, offering clarity amid chaos and harmony amid distraction. The flowers, bursting with vibrant pinks and reds, represent the depth and passion that life can hold—guiding us toward growth and our full potential.
Behind Keke, turtles rise, enriching her life with gratitude and appreciation. When we see the beauty in the ordinary, life becomes extraordinary.
Amid the rainforest and wild surf coast lives the honeyeater bird known as the Tui, a creature of great significance in Māori culture. These birds are seen as messengers from the heavens, possessing the remarkable ability to mimic the songs of other birds and even human voices. In this painting, they symbolise confidence, harmony, and life fulfilment—much like the native flora that surrounds them.
Bringing Keke’s message of unity, nature’s spiritual enrichment, hope, and peace back to life through this painting has been a true joy.
