Kārearea in Flight

Artist: Anahera Lewis Kemara

Title: Kārearea in Flight

Medium: Acrylic on canvas

Dimensions: 71cm x 55.5cm

Artwork kōrero

This painting explores the relationship between whakapapa, te taiao, and our connection to the whenua and the natural world around us. At the centre, the kārearea takes flight above the whenua, capturing a moment of stillness and freedom. For me, it reflects the freedom found through art - the process of creating, being present, and allowing a work to take shape.

Above, Matariki is woven into the sky through tukutuku-inspired patterns, acknowledging the presence of our tūpuna and the traditional practice of tukutuku. The maunga, inspired by the landscapes of Tāhuna, stand prominently beneath.

Māori patterns flow throughout the composition, representing whakapapa and connection as they surround the manu in flight.

Through the kārearea, whenua, whakapapa and ngā whetū, this work is a reminder of the connections that surround us - to our tūpuna, to te taiao, and to something greater than ourselves.