Found in Waiheke

I recently turned 50 and decided to mark the milestone with some time away. Waiheke Island presented us with an opportunity to explore somewhere as yet undiscovered in NZ for us as a family.

I thought I was going for a quick break from the norm and a fancy dinner at Mudbrick Vineyard Restaurant. And yes, the island gave me that. But it also gave me so much more. Something I didn’t know I was looking for.

Waiheke offered me an invitation.

To be present

To slow down

To enjoy each other

To play silly games

To wander where the mood took us

To go deep instead of shallow

To nourish our bodies with simple, tasty food

To be playful

To sink into nature

To let the water rinse our souls

And so I found something I wasn’t expecting…

A new sense of peace. A softness. An ease. A clarity. The effect Waiheke had on us all has been lasting. I have a lot to do for the NZ Art Show in June. And I’m committed to making the most of that wonderful opportunity. I plan to be fully present in that moment and enjoy every second.

The work I’m being invited to create after the show, will be more of an expression of how Waiheke made me feel and really sinking into the nostalgia of simpler times. It’s something my work already has an element of, but which I want to explore at a deeper level. My aim will be to create an emotional connection that engages all the senses.

My usual approach to my work is to rush in. However, for this collection, I’m starting slowly and gently by capturing my intention in an art journal. It’s a new way of working for me, and I hope it adds a fresh dimension to the work.

I’ll share more as that develops.

For now, I invite you to step out of your lives – even if it’s just for a day. And be 100% present in whatever it is you choose to do.

Tracey x