18 January 2008

The tides is pulling me

Every day is a journey and the journey itself is home

No, I haven't forgotten how to write right. The words are the conclusion of a post I wrote just over two years ago; the image is based on a recent photo of rapids in a small gorge in the Pohangina River. I don't know how to label this. It's not a photo; "image" is too wishy-washy; "artwork" too pretentious. Moreover, it probably benefits from a little explanation, even if the explanation's indirect (and regarding that, I'd encourage you to read Dave's post at via Negativa — a typically thought-provoking discussion about artists' statements and other challenging ideas like the concept of "nature porn"). I suspect "play" and "experiment" are more accurate descriptions.

I'm heading away again, this afternoon, down to the South Island, to meet up with the rest of my family; the first time we'll all have been together for a very long time. Longer blog posts, with more to say, will follow, although perhaps not just in the next few days. But, perhaps this — whatever it is — says what needs to be said, right now.


© 2008 Pete McGregor

8 comments:

Ruahines said...

Kia ora Pete,
Wow, once again you have stunned me. This speaks to me on so many levels. The journey, what we leave behind, what we find, the Ruahine ranges, family. Just awesome, I would love to have a print.
Enjoy your time with your family, as you have written that is all that needs to be said.
Ka kite,
Robb

Emma said...

I needed this. Thank you.

Zhoen said...

A wonder, call it what you will.

MB said...

Whatever it is, I find myself looking at it again. And again.

Theriomorph said...

I love the play.

pohanginapete said...

Thank you everyone; I'm grateful for the encouragement and very pleased the whatever-it-is intrigued you.

Still down South and enjoying a marvellous time with family. I'll be back soon, with another post on the way.

:^)

Ruahines said...

Kia ora Pete,
I return to this post from time to time, as well as those photos of the Whios. I get very strong feelings from your painting,photo, image, artwork - whatever definition one might place upon it - it moves me.
I recently have done some renovations to accomodate a small wood stove in our lounge, and we are putting up several images of the Ruahine ranges in that corner to create the ambiance we seek. I realize this might seem forward or intrusive so I apologize in advance, but I would love to have- buy- a print of your work to include amongst that area. Is this possible?
If not I completely understand, but thought I would inquire anyway.
Hope your year is progressing well. Any trips planned? I know you mentioned you had a visitor coming over. My busy ends in a few weeks and I will get away with my son for a few days. Hopefully the long hot summer will delay the roar a bit. Stay well Pete.
Ka kite e hoa,
Robb

pohanginapete said...

Robb, it's not at all forward or intrusive. I'm honoured — thank you. Drop me an email or give me a call and we can talk it over.
Just out of the Ruahine again, this time with more whio photos — saw 4 or 5 males in the Pohangina. You'll be seeing a photo or two soon!
Noho ora mai ra, e hoa.