He Tangata

by Charles & Janine Williams

Napier, NZ – March 2016

Artist

Finding This Mural

Inside the Napier Port gates (at the side entrance next to
Breakwater Beach)

1 Breakwater Rd, Bluff Hill, Napier 4110, New Zealand

Google Map

Story Behind This Mural

Artist Statement

The mural has three layers of meaning. Layer 1: Our main inspiration for our Sea Walls mural comes from the naming of Napier or ‘Ahuriri.’ Chief Tu Ahuriri cut a channel into the lagoon space at Ahuriri because the Westshore entrance had become blocked, threatening cultivations surrounding the Whanga and the fishing villages on the islands and in the lagoon. The rivers were continually feeding freshwater into the area. He created change through his courage and understanding of the greater good of his people; we too are following that kaupapa (initiative) by using our talent to bring awareness to environmental issues and to follow his lead in creating a better world. Layer 2: The main purpose of our piece is the Bar-tailed Godwit. We chose this shorebird because it feeds at the Estuary at Ahuriri and also because of its focus, strength, and determination during its 11,000 km flight from Alaska to Aotearoa. We too need these traits when supporting and driving a message such as ocean and environmental awareness for Sea Walls. Layer 3: He aha te mea nui o te ao - What is the most important thing in the world? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata - It is the people, it is the people, it is the people