Story Behind This Mural
Artist Statement
This work speaks of the critically endangered NZ Storm Petrel (Oceanites Maorianus). The small swallow-like seabird was declared extinct in 1850 until it was rediscovered in 2004. We are currently facing the 6th wave of extinction where human activity is directly impacting on the survival of other species and biodiversity. Especially as witnessed in our oceans right now.
The story of the Storm Petrel and its re-emergence into existence is one of hope. Few creatures are considered Lazarus Taxons (an organism that has disappeared from the fossil record only to reappear again) and I painted this piece as a reminder that we know so little about our earth and its mysteries. I believe its critically important keep our wild spaces just that - wild and free. Our survival, as well as other creatures such as the Storm Petrel, depends on our earth's diversity.