My dad, Ian passed away in January this year. I dedicate this drawing to his memory.
Tunneling through the earth the great Taniwha, Ianthaw embraces his role as the protective guardian. Highly respected, this supernatural being reminds us that we are always watched by a power that is stronger than mankind.
Dangerous and determined with a twist of unpredictability his tail reveals the ability to manipulate earth for desired achievement.
His internal conflict against letting go is eminent but through surrender he finally allows mother nature to take her regenerative course.
A picturesque lunch spot taken of Ian in the Lewis Pass on the way to Nina Hutt.
As a family every Easter holiday we would get the opportunity to experience one of Aotearoa's great walks. The native beech forest was one of Ian's favorite places on earth.
Dad was proud to have an ancestorial blood link to the Māori iwi Ngāti Raukawa, with his roots growing up in the Waikato. In his academic life as a health economist for years he dedicated his time helping the indigenous population. Writing papers trying to help those most vulnerable with diabetes, Hepatitis C, evoking change with budgets and policy. In 2006 he was awarded a Te Amorangi; National Māori Academic Excellence Awards ~ Te Tohu Kairangi ~
He was modest about his work and did this while raising a family, navigating and surviving a huge health battle with integrity and building a gorgeous walnut and blueberry farm alongside my mum.
Ian loved watching and helping my art career develop. Here are a two photographs celebrating this.
Early days, dad enjoying the art from my 5th form folio created at Lincoln High School
Wilhelmina and Ian helping out at the Unsealed mural in Christchurch, NZ 2016