This year I was involved in a very special project, celebrating NZ Forest & Bird's centennial.
I was invited to contribute to the 26 Project, where 13 artists and 13 writers collaborate and create works exploring a Forest & Bird reserve.
I was given the 'Ark in the Park' reserve in the Waitakerie Ranges.
Lee Ryan and I explored the Ark in the Park with the volunteers who created and maintain the reserve. I was struck by the awesome size of the project and it's location on the outskirts of Auckland, New Zealand's biggest city.
The volunteers work tirelessy to control introduced predators like rats and stoats, to allow the native flora and fauna to recover. They have introduced many species to the area including the endangered Kokako (an endemic wattlebird).
I created this artwork for the 26 project, to celebrate and appreciate the incredible work of the dedicated volunteer army, and to highlight the Ark in the Park reserve. I hope it inspires current and future generations to carry on the legacy that has been created here.
Art prints are available on request, please contact me at... cathy@hansbydesign.com