Nga Tamariki - Kōtare - Original Painting

A multi-media exhibition showcasing digital art and hand-painted works by Taranaki based artist Rob Barrington.
 
Initially conceived in 2020 to highlight the streams lost to urban development, this exhibition reflects on the impact of housing, towns, and cities on natural waterways. The collection, which took six months to create, features a soundtrack recorded in 2010 by the Auckland band “Montage,” with Rob on drums.

The artwork re-imagines New Zealand before human settlement, featuring hand-drawn animations of native bird species such as the Tuī, Kereru, and Pīwakawaka. These birds are depicted harmoniously flying over a generic stream, symbolizing any of Aotearoa's many waterways. The Guardian Eagle ‘Owaaku’ oversees the birds and land, leading them across the sky. Meanwhile, the local Taniwha of the river warns of its dangerous beauty as fish gracefully swim in their habitat, reminding us of the knowledge that flows from mountains to the sea.

This exhibition aims to honour New Zealand's unique natural environment, raising awareness about the importance of preserving indigenous wildlife, land, and rivers. It is both a celebration of the country's native wildlife and a testament to the beauty and
diversity of its natural landscapes.