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Motivation and Oxygen Masks
There is more than one way to eat a Mellowpuff and when it comes to the whole concept of ‘following your dreams’, in my opinion, there are a few key things that make a HUGE difference.
See these three little words have been making me a little queasy of recent- its being bashed around like a friggin doctrine.
We have little road signs all through life. We make conscious and unconscious decisions constantly- living in a sense is being sensitive to these. However what MOTIVATIONS are driving these choices separates the monkeys from the bananas.
Personally, Truth, Heart, a desire for good, excitement and an adoration of people and personalities is what drives my ‘dreams’. I search out experiences and things to do that I love, but what is the driving background to all of these things is interaction with people. From the moment I get up and out and about I am intrigued and curious about where the day will take me and who I will get to encounter and play with.
Doctrines in ANY form miss the whole point of the game. Its like watching a movie to teach you how to snowboard, you kinda get it, it gives you the concept but those muscles aint seen nothing yet!
I don’t step on people to get what I desire. I don't manipulate situations and I am NEVER focused on cash at the outset.
Often I go into jobs or positions with a quite different reason than what may appear from the outside. I have had many eclectic ‘jobs’ over the years all the while collecting skills, techniques and a piece of my jigsaw that I need for the bigger picture. I love getting down and dirty and pitching in because I know I will learn something new and that the energy I bring to a group is there for a reason, as it is with my fellow team members. The only thing that I truly abhor is elitism and snobbery- London you wracked my fur a little precisely because of this.
My love and understanding of people is what makes me valuable and unique. It is the true essence of who I am and what I enjoy, and is my ultimate skill: working with people and being able to select, manage and participate in dynamic and complex teams. My art is the product of experiences and is the result of how I process being out of my comfort zone and in extreme cases, in pain. Art brings me enjoyment and resolve, but it holds a different more complex type of fizz for me.
Happiness comes in flux, and equally with her buddy sadness. Spectrums slide and shift left and right and maturity to me is learning how to cruise this groove. Glow in the ups and hug through the lumps.
My story, and my love of learning and experience has taken me through so many diverse experiences. As you've heard before, I got wrapped into good things and bad, but always drove myself on my own terms. I soak up advice, knowledge and opinions but squeeze out with my own juice after reflecting and rationalising what I am working with. I try all sorts of things and love finding others who can help me learn or partake in the skills I do not have or want to understand. THIS is how amazing things happen; not from focusing on money or the holes- it comes from trying.
Coming back to New Zealand after six months has been wonderful and also alarming. I adore my country, it’s stunning landscape and creative, open and dynamic individualism. Although I am disturbed, and increasingly so each time I leave and return, about the increase in the cost of living, the distress and worry I see etched on peoples faces and the obsession with money over experience. Many times in my life I have done things without pay because I love whats happening or I can see the bigger picture. I have not had money to do what I do or create the things I make, I have to go and work from there. But my life, and my pushing of the limits and boundaries of this from a very young age have given me precedent and trust in the process. If you love what you do, the money will come and things work out because of PEOPLE. I am known for saying ‘Dreams are free, the hustle is sold separately’. Genuine passion and belief snowballs.
The crowdfunding project I ran and publicised 14 months ago was the trumpet blast of what I had been doing all my life. People said to me I was insane, people were hung up on the amount of money I was trying to raise (which to me was just a number), some people were vocally disapproving and were jealous, vindictive, actively and maliciously sabotaging components or parts of the project. MANY MORE were outstanding and realised I was up to something much bigger than what was on the surface. I always have a bigger picture and I don't get put off by people not liking what I do. (Actually this is sometimes a bloody good indication you're right onto something very cool!). Peoples nastiness took longer for me to be able to deflect and understand; just because you can stand up for yourself doesn’t mean you are not hurt or are bulletproof. People like to undermine or tell themselves there are ‘reasons’ a person is successful that prevents themselves from acting or becoming similar. As you grow though you understand that people will always try tag, allocate and undermine in the attempt to claw back power for themselves. Hard work learning and SELECTING the right skills, decorum, integrity and a sense of humour get me where I go, and I have and never will sleep my way anywhere.
Sex and the implications on women that this is a requirement in the creative world to be successful, makes not only my skin crawl but me fiercely angry. I have been confronted with appalling situations and provocations over the years- if my legacy helps one woman or man not go through what I have, I will pass on a happy soul. To create is insanely complex, contrary to popular belief, it is not easy. To get to ‘easy’ with ANYTHING in life goes through ‘hard’. My anger watching souls pour everything into creating, where more often than not people are against what you are doing, to then struggle to have the courage, let alone the resources to publicise this and then to be prayed upon by sociopathic vultures wanting not only what is in your mind and soul, but between your legs also, makes me sick. Especially when what they seek is association and validation by others of the ‘support’ they gave the new butterfly to grow. It’s like being gang fucked. Yes. Vulgar, painful and degrading. I have watched so many young beautiful people feel so desperate that they have succumbed to this behaviour. Underselling themselves and trying to get by, and it’s getting worse. The creative sphere can be a little dirty, historically through to present day, but everyone of us can make a difference. I will never walk a well trodden path and am quite happy to bush bash and make a new line. Sleezy slice of the Art world you are lower than prostitution- at least that is an even playing field. If you have to sleep with anyone to sell your art, it simply is not right; right timing, right people, right circumstances. Harsh but true. But it doesn't mean it's not good; keep moving forwards with eyes on the prize. As a woman I got tired of the implications of my success linked with my sexual activity, but always look at it as rather hilarious- shit my social life is outrageously incredible- did anyone want to let me know?! Let others fill in the gaps- it makes them think they know what they are up to poor souls.
There are many instances currently in NZ where the shortsightedness of ‘user pays’ is undermining the beauty of what we have and will damage where we are going. We are uber creative ingenious adventurous thinkers. EVERY one of us that lives here- because to exist in this land you have made a special journey. The luxury of land, our access to nature and resources facilitates our ability to undertake extraordinary ideas, but this thought process; the environment that nurtures a brain to be able to do this, can’t be running in loop panicked about putting food on the table, a roof overhead and heating on. WHY are you moving to Auckland? What is up there that your soul is calling you to follow or are you jumping on a train that someone is telling you is the direction you ‘need’ to go…? Money is love- do what you love and success will follow. YOUR success- not an image of this that someone is using as propaganda.
New Zealand is BY FAR the most expensive place I have ever travelled. The day to day living is extreme and has recently been supported by international data collector Numbeo which has recently come out and said that it is now one of the most expensive places in the world to live. Overseas, if food is expensive then often travel is cheap, or vica versa. So many places overseas are pinned with being heavy cachinga hitters- but once you are there it is all relative- yes rent in Tokyo is high, but LIVING (eating, doing stuff) is cheap. Aotearoa is crippling, it’s food, it’s rent, it’s travel, it’s entertainment, it’s running a vehicle, a cellphone, looking after a pet or paying the power/ gas. When your brain is consumed with trying to figure out how to pay the bills it leaves very very little space to be able to think outside a box and MUCH less space to grasp how to be happy. Our unique ability as Kiwi’s to be inventive is being directly undermined by our quality of life.
Where is all this coming from? Well, we as a race are intensely competitive, it’s like we have to jump higher and higher because we think the rest of the world has missed us- they aren’t even close- we excel in pretty much everything. Our government policies aren't helping and there is no infrastructure in place for the opposite. I eat more NZ grown and made produce overseas than I have ever done at home- disgraceful really when our groceries cost so much, and we can't have what we make. Costs keep going up yet wages are shockingly low and the achnologed value system for skill is appalling. Drop GST on fresh fruit/ veggies and give priority to local production. Like when I bake for my friends, the fudge gets divided up and a small box stays and gets snuffled into the fridge for the baker! We are forgetting kind basics…
Put the oxygen mask on yourself before you put it on the child next to you.
It’s a metaphor for life. We are no use to anyone if we are passed out! But as with anything its balance- you can't be so high on the gas you have forgotten the child is there! ‘Live your dreams’ …. yesssssss. But not at the cost to others. Life is Star Wars- from families to parties- bet you have met a Jabba, Hans Solo, and Yoda. Princess Leia your sister?… Chewbakka your mate at the rugby….lol. I have encountered Darth and his cronies- I rather hope you can avoid the Death Star…
Inner Child. It must be incredibly distressing to not be intimately acquainted with him or her because damn it is fuuuun. I think I am on some levels permanently 3, but if your small one has gone wandering I think it best you put your hiking boots on buddy and get mountaineering for under the rocks, behind the gorse bush and over the fence lies happiness. She's snuggled up with what makes you pop. THIS, if you can pinpoint it, will be what makes your heart sing and yes, bring you financial reward. I provoke it’s not a label like ‘designer’ or ‘doctor’ is much more primal and simple than this. What kid were you in the sandpit? ;)
A month or so ago I was at a party and encountered a Black Hole. A woman who’s behaviour and energy was to me simply quite fascinating in a rather macabre but utterly mesmerising manner. She sucked everything in and spat nothing out. All consuming and propelled by a fascinating velocity, the other galaxies in the room had an interesting orbital awareness of her also. Few were able to navigate her gravitational pull. Makes you think huh, we need all the planets to keep in orbit but we need warm, bright ones to make things grow by giving not consuming- we are all made of the same matter, we are energy and extra, and we exist and play within a world made from the concepts of our imagination.
Avoid the pack mentality, give everything a try, be a little wary of those that proclaim all the answers or flash around slogans willy nilly, it’s a cover and unfortunately they are like primary school teachers that hate children; banging on about things when they are missing the whole point of actually being there; imparting knowledge through fun.
☮ & 💖 in The Hague, Netherlands
🙊ok- this is the CUTEST thing eva- It is a bridge purposely built for squirrels to get over the road! 🐿❤️someone knows why they want to get to the other side.. hehe Peace, love and bloody cool Dutch design. Click HERE to see the video the New York Times created on this topic and using my photo ;)
The greatest thing I will ever create is my life. I adore the world and the people within it and get great enjoyment from sharing the things and experiences I come across.
Here is some uber doozie dopeness in Holllllland ^+^
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The Louwman Museum - The Hague
The Louwman Museum is the most spectacular collection of automobiles and art, sculpture and design. It is simply exquisite. From the architecture of the building and landscape of the grounds, to the presentation, layout and flow of the museum itself. The Louwman collection is not only vast, but perfectly composed. It is obvious each and every piece has been carefully selected and adored.
Currently there is wonderful display of Willem Lenssinck sculptures displayed in the main entrance hall (which is glorious in itself!)- seriously fabulous stuff! Love LOVE!
From teeny to large what is especially wonderful is the Louwmans invested in pieces that resonated of other peoples passion and loves also. Mr Toyoda's desk, Robert Mathewson's Swan Car, one of Elvis' Cadillacs, the Suzuki raced by Wil Hartog who was the first Dutchman to win the 500cc Grand Prix at the 1977 Dutch TT. A revolutionary McLaren racing car and the DB5 Aston Martin driven by Sean Connery in the James Bond film 'Goldfinger' sit with bronze, glass and silver sculptures, paintings, posters, gas bowsers and other collectables; all exemplary members of this exclusive family. Every single item on display has been thoughtfully and lovingly selected as the pièce de résistance of it's kind- the museum exudes passion.
I live by 'quality over quantity' - but this is a very, very rare instance where quantity is of exceptional quality.
The Louwman Museum, complied by two generations of the Louwman family, is home to the world’s oldest private collection of motor cars. The museum dates back to 1934 and now comprises over two hundred and fifty antique and classic motor cars. Experts regard the collection as one of the most beautiful in the World. Each item on display has its own story to tell, its own contribution to history. The motor car is a mirror of culture. Automobiles also mirror personality; I would have very much liked Mr Louwman ;)
The collection is housed in a purpose-built museum in The Hague, the city where P.W. Louwman established his Dodge and Chrysler import company. The building, designed by American architect Michael Graves, blends in sympathetically with its historic surroundings. The landscape gardens, designed by Lodewijk Baljon, complement the architecture of the building.
From Bugatti like my Great Grandmother raced, to Jaguars my Grandfather collected and restored to Cadillacs my Uncle adores and Aston Martins which are the ultimate car in my eyes (duly noted no Morris Minor in the collection!) there is something for everyones tastes.
Blue: 1909 Gregoire 12/14-HP Coupe de Voyage and Yellow: 1910 Peugeot Type 126 12-15-HP Touring
1953 Fiat 1100 Boat-car Carrozzeria Coriasco
Elvis Presley, the ‘King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’, loved Cadillacs, and so does my uncle who is a dead ringer for the man himself. Presley owned about a hundred of them and most were customised. His purple and pink Cadillacs have since become world famous. This Fleetwood with its 8.2-litre engine was also built to his specification. Dummy headlamps were placed over the original lights, a generous amount of chrome was applied and thick running boards were fitted with a light-organ, which flashed when the car doors were opened. The dashboard lights pulsed to the beat of the music on the radio. Needless to say the interior has plush upholstery. A so-called ‘continental kit’, an extended bumper with spare wheel housing, was added to the rear. This was first applied to the Lincoln Continental, hence the name. However, on this Cadillac the housing is actually too small to take a real wheel.
Sadly, Elvis did not have long to enjoy this car. He died in August 1977, aged only 42.
1964 Aston Martin DB5
Forever linked: James Bond, Sean Connery, Aston Martin. This is the original DB5 that secret agent James Bond was given by the engineer ‘Q’ to carry out his mission in the film ‘Goldfinger’. The Aston Martin has the following gadgets:
- Two Browning machine guns behind the front indicators
- Hydraulic, extendable bumpers for use as battering-rams
- Revolving licence plates with English, Swiss and French registrations
- Extendable knives in the left rear hub to slash tyres
- A smoke dispenser to create a smokescreen
- A rear-mounted oil pump to create a slippery surface for pursuers
- A mechanism to scatter crow’s-feet on the road
- A bullet-proof screen to protect the rear window
- A navigation and radar system for tracking cars
- And, last but not least, an ejector seat to get rid of undesirable passengers
The deviser of all this lethal technology was Ken Adam, who worked on the production of the film. He was inspired by his experiences in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, when he flew a heavily armed Hawker Typhoon. All modifications to this DB5, which is one of four (three have survived) that were fully kitted out, were made in the Aston Martin factory. The scene where the car is handed over to James Bond was filmed in a corner of that factory.
Wil Hartog (born 28 May 1948) is a Dutch former Grand Prix motorcycle road racer.
Born in in Abbekerk, North Holland, Hartog became the first Dutchman to win a 500cc Grand Prix when he claimed a victory at the 1977 Dutch TT. Hartog won five Grands Prix during his career. Standing over six feet tall, he was at a disadvantage against his jockey-sized competitors yet he still managed impressive results. With his penchant for wearing all white riding apparel, he was nicknamed the white giant.
In 1971 Peter Revson won the CanAm championship in this M8F, fitted with an 8.1-litre Chevrolet V8 engine producing almost 750 hp. His teammate Denny Hulme finished second in another M8F.
The angular, aerodynamic edges on the sides are typical of this very wide McLaren M8F, which was built for the effectively unlimited CanAm Series. It was the most significant model in a series of almost unbeatable racing cars which, in the hands of racing driver/constructor/team owner Bruce McLaren and his teammate Denny Hulme, dominated the CanAm Series at the end of the sixties. It even got to the stage where the race was referred to as ‘The Bruce and Denny Show’. Both men are New Zealanders, hence the kiwi, my countries national symbol, on the side of the car. YESSS! ^+^
In 1967, 1968 and 1969 McLaren and Hulme took turns in winning the title. However, in 1970 tragedy struck – Bruce McLaren was killed while test-driving the new prototype. In spite of these difficulties Denny Hulme managed to win the title once again.
1910 Brooke 25/30HP Swan Car
This Brooke Swan Car is truly extraordinary. It was the creation of the eccentric and wealthy Englishman Robert Nicholl ‘Scotty’ Matthewson, who lived in early 20th century Calcutta, the capital of what was then British India. Matthewson wanted to shock the local elite with his car, and he certainly succeeded in doing so.
Cygnet The Baby Swan Car 1920
The bodywork represents a swan gliding through water. The rear is decorated with a lotus flower design finished in gold leaf, an ancient symbol for divine wisdom. Apart from the normal lights, there are electric bulbs in the swan’s eyes that glow eerily in the dark. The car has an exhaust-driven, eight-tone Gabriel horn that can be operated by means of a keyboard at the back of the car. A ship’s telegraph was used to issue commands to the driver. Brushes were fitted to sweep off the elephant dung collected by the tyres. The swan’s beak is linked to the engine’s cooling system and opens wide to allow the driver to spray steam to clear a passage in the streets. Whitewash could be dumped onto the road through a valve at the back of the car to make the swan appear even more lifelike.
The car caused panic and chaos in the streets on its first outing and the police had to intervene. Matthewson sold the car to the Maharaja of Nabha, whose family owned it for over seventy years.
The car was discovered years later in its original state, albeit in poor condition. The sumptuous Indian silk upholstery had been eaten away by rats. In 1991 it came into the ownership of the Louwman Museum and was fully restored. New upholstery was commissioned from an Indian weaving mill following the discovery of remnants of the original material under the seats. All the gadgets were made to working order again. In 1993 the Swan won the Montagu Prize at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Élégance in California.
To accompany the large ‘Swan Car’ The Marahaja of Nabha had this smaller version made for use on his estate in the 1920s. The body was hand-beaten from steel sheet and fitted with an electric motor. It was called the 'Baby Swan' or 'Cygnet'. Note the cygnets at the front. This is probably the oldest Indian-made automobile.
Both cars are now reunited in the museum, like ‘mother and daughter’.
Above: muses, amazing engines, filigree cars, Art Nouveaux posters, illustrations, grills, bowsers and magnificent interior achritecture- pwwooah, if I only could show more!
1955 Daimler DK 400 'Golden Zebra' Coupe
Art or an ostentatious and vulgar display of wealth? This is the 1955 equivalent to driving a customised hot pink Porche while wearing a matching velour jumpsuit on yourself and chihuahua- hold on.. nah, that's kinda funny hot. This thing is disturbing- more like using the chihuahua to furnish the Porche. Visitors to the Earls Court Motor Show in London in 1955 must have been in dismay when they saw this Daimler on the stand of Hooper coachbuilders. Its extraordinary characteristics are golden trim, zebra-hide upholstery, an ivory (!) dashboard and a zebra mascot on the radiator. It is a disturbing relic of the mentality held by some in the 1950's towards Africa and the animal inhabitants.
Created by Lady Docker, a former nightclub dancer who married Sir Bernard Docker (the chairman of BSA, which owned the Daimler company) in 1949, after two previous millionaire-marriages. Lady Docker believed that the Daimler marque was not widely recognised and needed to do something to enhance its reputation. She took on the role of stylist and as of 1951 she commissioned Hooper to build a new and ostentatious display model every year. This was the 1955 model, which was further fitted with a cocktail bar, a picnic basket, leather cases, and ivory make-up utensils.
Eventually, the management at BSA had enough of the Dockers’ flamboyant and indulgent lifestyle, especially since England had not yet recovered from the effects of the war. Sir Bernard was removed from the board and the cars were stripped of their accessories before being sold off.
The Golden Zebra had multiple owners and was restored to its original state between 1998 and 2006. Zebra hides were imported from Kenya for the upholstery. Needless to say, the dashboard is no longer made of ivory but a combination of ivory wood and sycamore.
After the BSA affair, Sir Bernard and Lady Docker were gradually excluded from high society and lost more and more of their possessions. They spent their last days in a bungalow in Jersey as tax exiles. Good triumphs evil... thank goodness.
After winding your way through the displays, you arrive into a grand hall. Original house fronts, sourced from around The Hague create an authentic 1920's atmosphere. The houses are furnished and filled with all sorts of amazing and interesting goodies in their own right. Artisan level food is accompanied by attentive old world service- simply Deeeee-vine ^=^
Whether you are a motor enthusiast, appreciate art and design or just like to wander amongst beautiful things, this is on the top of my list of wonderful ways to spend time. Quite. Magnificent.
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The Escher Museum - The Hague
The M.C Escher collection is housed in the former Winter Palace of Queen Mother Emma of the Netherlands. The royal ambiance of the building has been maintained to the highest standard and much to my delight- incredible contemporary chandeliers are installed in the rooms.
These contemporary masterpieces by Rotterdam based artist Hans van Bentem take controversial forms; a skull, gun, shark and bomb are a few, however they mange to sublimely and seamlessly integrate modern cool into their traditional chic environment.
The museum on the far right and Hotel Des Indes in yellow.
Maurits Cornelis Escher (1898-1972) is one of the world's most famous graphic artists. He was born in Leeuwarden, the Netherlands, as the fourth and youngest son of a civil engineer and had a privileged and culturally rich childhood.
He is most famous for his so-called 'impossible constructions' and optical illusion drawings. What most are not so aquatinted with are his wonderful, more realistic works created during the time he lived and traveled in Italy.
The surroundings are rather sublimely elegant huh! Below: Escher's early works and sketches were of particular interest to me
M.C. Escher was a prolific artist. During his lifetime he made 448 lithographs, woodcuts and wood engravings and over 2000 drawings and sketches. Like some of his famous predecessors, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Dürer and Holbein, M.C. Escher was left-handed. Escher was not only a graphic artist, but also illustrated books, designed tapestries, postage stamps and murals.
Following are some of my favourite Escher works ^=^
Circle Limit IV, 1960, Woodcut in black and ocre, printed from 2 blocks.
Drawing Hands, 1948, Lithograph. 332mm x 282mm.
Puddle, 1952, Woodcut in black, green and brown, printed from 3 blocks. 319mm x 240mm.
Eye, 1946, Mezzotint, 7th and final stage.
Dewdrop, 1948, Mezzotint. 245mm x 179mm.
👣 👀 🏛 🌌 🔮 🎨🕴
IMAGINATION 💜 VISION
Amsterdam- yeep it is ridiculously pretty, and fantastically wonky ^=^
I adore Christmas and New Years. This time of the year has so much ZING and buzz… yeeoww!
POP the Champers, get out the cheese platter and call your loved ones over to celebrate the year. It is reflect and goal set season amigoes! Just like after a motorbike ride, I rationally and methodically work back through the good, spicy and most definitely could be done better next time moments and give them good turn over in my minds eye and ego.
We can pack achievements into days like rice into onigiri balls- every day in every way we are better and better; more knowledgeable, with more space for softness, more multi-coloured and more aware. Time flys and within these jam packed days, somehow looking back always ‘only feels like yesterday’. However there is a comfort in this reflection for when times seem tough- it feels huge when you are in it- but it’s a glinkle in the big picture and will inevitably pass. Look through the corners and as long as no-one has lost an eye, all can be fixed!
These rings were carved by the phenomenal Japanese artist Fumio Noguchi who is descendant of samurai. He lives in Stoke, Nelson, New Zealand- I adore his work. They are my travel companions and remind me of my direction and motivations.
Jurōjin (寿老人) is one of the Seven Gods of Fortune in the Taoist religion. This faith is built on the concept of unity and opposites; yin and yang. Jurojin is the god of longevity and wisdom. This is signified by his large forehead and long ear lobes.
To reinforce my travel buddies for adventure I went to my incredible friend Steph Lusted who set them in silver and engraved the words 'Wanderlust' and 'Vision' upon them. Both make me smile with their jolly expressions ^+^
Otafuku is a Japanese Shinto Goddess representing good luck, happiness and fertility. Despite her homely appearance it was said her sincerity and purity of spirit would encourage even the dark hearted to rethink their agenda.
2015 was my year of Passion and Trepidation. Learning a helluva lot more about love and facing niggles and anxieties head on. It was the year of analysing and recognising emotions and honestly appraising and accepting my flaws and past. I personally and professionally achieved all my hearts desires, and once close evaluated where I wanted to be and what I wanted to achieve next- Miss Squirrel tucks into rebuilding zee nut pile ;) I reordered and recognised vices and honestly evaluated my motives. I have always achieved what I have set my mind to, but this year I challenged myself to push further into the realm of achieving goals where I could not plan or foresee the entire project. Dreams where my heart and mind could see where I was going, but where reality and peoples opinions deemed my ideas unfeasible. Dreams where in the real world I left on international adventures with little to no budget but belief in my skills and personality. I love when people say ‘you cant do that’- where there is a will there is a way, and I have a very large tool kit to draw from.
I learnt first hand that nothing stays the same- home is within you; sometimes we get lured by the notion that we can go back to the familiar. I returned to New Zealand mid year because of an accident and turned this u-turn into the production and exhibition of new artwork- a purpose for being back while I repaired, but myself and my surroundings were on new terms. Purpose and motive needs to be ahead of desire and longing.
Christmas time in Delft, Netherlands
I love getting the coloured felt tip pens out and a HUGE piece of paper and brain bubbling all the achievements, ticked goals, topics or events of interest down on the paper. Highlighted and materialised from your mental blackboard to physical white paper has a powerful effect and a bloody good excuse to use glitter pens and those amazing pencils that have like seven different coloured cores all together, yet don't quite hit the mark for presentations as they always want to stick on yellow so the dude at the back can't see lol. Ever need to resolve a problem or work a direction out- this technique is my go to. You cant deny the pros and cons when they are black and white (or purple), and you cant help but laugh when everyone wants the same colour.
Amsterdam skyline
Persevere, be patient and dedicate everything to your beliefs. Condition yourself to never give up- nothing knocks me down for long. The sports I adore, the languages I speak, the music I play and the passions I follow all knock me back once in a while, and some more than that. But I always keep trying. You WILL have an accident as a motorcyclist, as with snowboarding- a grounding un-elegant whack to the ego, body and spirit- but this just makes us stronger from learning a new lesson. Speaking another language challenges us to navigate bloopers and translations; we’ve all had an awkward turtle cruise by, and so does playing music or creating art. Nothing is perfect- and my god what a plate of bland it would be if it could get that way! Yes, sometimes what you can get yourself into can be really really embarrassing in hindsight- but honestly, it all comes out in the wash.. and well, if it doesn't, who doesn't love retail therapy?…
Technology is the product of imagination but I see real time interaction as like comparing skinny and full fat milk- they both do the same trick but one has a bit more oomph. The media combined with the accessibility of the technology of today, is subconsciously reinforcing unrealistic ideas of ‘perfection’. Things, people and identities don't feel right when they are bought or superimposed and there is no way your ducks will ever perfectly line up. Letting your subconscious float with images or comparisons where the perception is that this is a complete package does no good. Turn off- GO OUTSIDE
Our souls don't integrate and sing an experience by watching it or sticking it on: be. proud. in. your. skin. Media doesn't make your brain PAINT the image in your head. Imagination and vision is the most powerful tool we have, because quite literally, if you can harness this power you can create your dreams. It is only a Western view that dreaming at night is the by-product of a resting body- a huge proportion of the world has known for centuries that this time and these images are much more powerful and alive. Real deal zebras earn their stripes from trial and error and getting up and trying all over again in the savannah with mud and creepy crawlies and all sorts of curveball challenges.
Delft
It will not be long before we can eat, touch, use all our senses and create within a digital existence- the beginnings are already there: the emotive connections to what we see and hear, remote robotics engineering and creative software. What are the pros and cons of this interaction, what really is the definition of ‘tangible’ and what is the cost to us as organic interactive mammals? How does this effect traditional imagination and perception? The balance of power between virtual and real is tipping.. This is the evolution of our race which is exhilarating, but I foresee new frameworks to exist within this that will bring interesting challenges. Core principles of evolution have been the same for millennia- perhaps now a little harder to see through white noise. With open eyes life works out; where once it was a letter now is an email, we fly rather than sail, we can tweet our thoughts and get introduced to other likeminded people in a bat of an eyelid on the other side of the globe- but this all happens for a reason on what your life is doing.
Every day older is a wonder. As a woman and a human, I only see benefits in how we age. We are such incredible creatures with unique energies that grow stronger if we give them the right conditions. Age helps us tweak the mix and refine the ingredients. I have grown amongst elders who are dynamic, passionate, intellectual and openminded, traits which have encouraged me to develop in the same way and gift my time to others who are curious and engaged: learn from those you admire but trust yourself to create your own story. Value age; don't buy into other peoples dismissive attitiude- make your own decisions on your own terms. The people who genuinely value and adore you will stay stuck to you too come hell or high water. As a woman, I feel empowered, within my skin and stronger every day older- not to mention sexier- I worry less and embraced the immensely powerful notion that no-one can hurt me apart from myself and the ones I love. There is a strength and resolve that comes from this that is truly liberating.
The Hague: Hotel Des Indes and the Escher Museum on the far right... more to come on this one!
I have always been very proud of my country, culture and in love with the land of Aotearoa- but my adoration has grown with a new appreciation of what it means to be a New Zealander. My ancestors were some of the first to arrive in The Land of the Long White Cloud; far OUT they had pioneering spirit- whatever we push ourselves to do today is really rather timid and diminished by the enormity of what our predecessors undertook. We have history, colour, passion in our very very new country. Adventure and discovery is in the blood of each and every person who travels to this far land to make their home. History with both good and bad and blood on the hands of both parties. This needs to be embraced and not adapted and appropriated to fit- other mature cultures don't do this- comes back to learning how to be comfortably uncomfortable. We magpie and collect things from all around the world and bring them back home where we refine them- but I’m calling that we are doing to much of this to our heritage also. This cannot be rewritten, refined or embellished. History is not perfect. I am a mongrel- we all are- we are mixed and multicultural. No-one is ‘pure NZ’- we are one people with a culture that is so world leading it is incredible (if not a little fun police sometimes..). I look towards a future in my country where there is unity in diversity and where our history and stories are told in truth by ALL parties. We are a magnificent people- it is no wonder that individuals and teams amongst this go on to do, create and become incredible humans with unique achievements. Our integrity, sense of play and follow through is unparalleled. We don't look for the holes in dreams; when the rest of the world is going ‘WTF?!’ we go ‘soo I’ve got the car keys..’
Even the way we travel is unique. We are spontaneous, courageous and ready to adapt. It is intimidating booking a one way flight with fluid plans and only the first nights acomm organised, but you get into a ripple.. I cant think of anything worse than being tied into a box and an allocated itinerary! Pat on the back wee Kiwis- from our glorious island with a teeny population- we sure get around. ‘Salt of the Earth’ I’ve been called on more than one occasion- yes. we. are. (and not far from J.R. Tolkiens leaf smoking hobbits who get on to Mordor and back to the Shire and everywhere in-between…. urg God we are NEVER going to shake this are we)
Bronze at Scheveningen Beach, The Hague
Kiwis have vision. New Zealanders BELIEVE we can do what we need to do, we grow up encouraged to visualise what we want to be and we are surrounded by idols who reinforce that by setting your mind to what you want, you can and will become what is in your heart. The cherry on the top is that by doing this you will meet the ones you idolise, and that is a very powerful and heart warming thing indeed. Ingenious and driven Kiwi spirits of note that have inspired me: Burt Munro (motorbike designer) to Richard Pearse (aircraft engineer, pilot and 1st man to fly) and Kate Sheppard (suffragette). Lorde (musician), John Britten (motorbike designer), Bruce McLaren (racing driver) to Jean Batten (pioneering aviator- 1st solo flight from London to Auckland) and our beloved All Blacks- what immense power is directed with them on the pitch as all over the globe we gather, anticipate and believe they will win and deliver… that is a LOT of directed energy! Shit- global warming? Maybe our world is just slowly heating because no one likes the cold?!?!! lol… We encourage the underdog, have accessible resources and ATTITUDE. Attitude is everything.
'The Lion and the Mouse' bronze at Scheveningen Beach, The Hague
Creativity comes as a response to pain- if everything was smooth sailing what I would produce would be boring. Evocative art has emotion. Design come from technical skill and ability. My art comes from deep inside me. My creations are the legacy of sensation and sometimes it is not until a while after that I see where they fit in my story and why I have produced them. There is something rather nice about this though as it’s inherently cathartic, and by the time this realisation dawns I am well into another direction. Love and Despair -there is nothing in this world without love, no money and no power- everyone must wake up in the knowledge that someone else is waking up thinking of them, because everyone has someone. Next time you meet an artist at their opening show though, give them a phenomenal quality and loooong hug- it'll be well earned and bloody immensely appreciated (Glasses, your hug midyear was unbeatable xo)
Be effervescent- see those bubble rise off yourself.
The shortest day has past- so my body clock can come from hibernation mode and start winding back towards sunlight (yayyy!) while in the Antipodeans wheel out the barbie, get the smoker hot and toasty for some fresh fish, lay the cray pots and dive for paua. Grab zee ‘kini, your most colourful dress or shirt, floppy hat and soak those rays babio!
Steal your kiddies crayons or treat your paws to the colourful pencil section at the art store. Make use of the brown paper after the F&C’s to draw out those desires for 2016.
What are you super uber duper proud of yourself for this last year?! (Yeah baby pat that back!)
AND
What do you desire more than anything for this one coming?
You deserve it- and hey, don't think it's crazy- there is always something bigger or crazier out there!
Go for it... I DARE you ^+^
🇬🇧 🇬🇧 L.O.N.D.O.N 🇬🇧 🇬🇧
London: she's a spicy broad who's just as likely to slap you with her handbag as offer you her lighter. I LOVE her, but in a dark chilli chocolate way, on event and rather not longterm. I adore the energy, the diversity, the colour, the grunt and the history. Especially at Christmas time- London is dressed up with lights, baubles and people smashing up on decadence and excess- yet in English styling God forbid ya let anything slip or ooze and actually look like you've lost it or you're enjoying all that fun. But there is a subversive hum to this city also, it has a sadness, anxious frenzy and ache-iness that permeates at a deeper level for me.
The contrast of the 'haves' and 'the have nots' is heart wrenching and the English class system is still well in effect. YES I went to a private school and to University at 16- what do I drive?! Umm- you've taken the wrong lady on my dear. I am not a fan of member's only clubs, elitist segregation or snobbery and London wracked my fur because of this, but she has provided me with some incredible insights and new experiences and for that I am most grateful.
Every turn has culture and history seeping from the bricks. People advised me against wandering about at night solo- which I never heed and make my own call about, but it is about picking times and places and comes down to what you feel comfortable being involved in. Actually many people in NZ said to me London wasn't safe- I'd beg to differ on that. Yet, not much makes me blink so we take that energy with us- fear vibrates and it's hard to cover your body language if you truly are feeling frightened and no-one deserves that walking home- soo gauge on your experience not mine- back up plan of attack: UBER, plan your day (tube stops at about 1am), or grab a mate.
Londonites are great fun and I met some incredible people but it is big city vibe-click-a-thon and it can be challenging cracking the ice traditional styles with people. I felt people are cautious about others motivations and measure what use you can be to them- networking in the slickest of senses and not of the variety I imbibe. In my experience people are also taken back that a woman is out and about doing things on her own and minus a cellphone stuck in her face, urg- felt like time had wound back a little. Ok- pattern worldwide is pretty similar- less on woman's equality and more on cellphone usage, but UK pub culture definitely runs as a pack situation and making buddies at a full bar or table takes some interesting techniques- and work. NZdrs and Poms share what I call commodity-tick-box conversation techniques- what do you do, where are you from, who are you here with etc- I'm not really interested in that stuff, I just like to talk to get to know someone for the sake of it without an ulterior motive and am far more interested in what they enjoy or feel connected to.
Here are few top hitters of my time in the English capital. There is so much to do and see it's a dangerous thing leaving the house because you can't help yourself but get sidetracked into wonderful places. Most of the galleries and museums are FREEEEEEEEE and it's amazing what events you can sidle up on into just by being around. I LOVE the process of getting somewhere and am never really too hung up on what the end result is. I really like how London travels and moves; paper newspapers are abound, the tube has it's own sass and the stations all have their particular vibe- love you South Kensington with your pot plants... but I feel for those with prams and incapacitated- there are no lifts or elevators in this heritage transit system. I wonder about the impact of the headlines and fear mentality of the tube papers too- all body image, gossip, bigoted Western view and salacious overreaction about world events- you might as well hold a loaded gun to your head if you want to feel positive and upbeat about your urban environment, community and body image.
To date I hadn't encountered such an outward display of pent up stress and frustration like I saw on mass on the tube with men (predominantly) bent double over their knees with heads in hands and rubbing their temples- literally distress peeling off them like feathers. People don't acknowledge each other and it's about business time.. actually London felt a lot like that to me- we are doing a job, not a time nor place for play luv- a very different beat than other big metropolises I've loved.
Places of note in addition to those below: Shoreditch wandering just for the street art and designs. Tate Britain: Amazeballs. Tate Modern- brilliant; love how Brits interact in museum formats, talking, bustling and getting in there :) Westbourne Park for retro at Rellik (serious sass with buzz entry and horrendously overpriced but fun for the experience). Millennium Bridge, St Andrews in the Fields, The awesome boutique Prince Charles Cinema and the Curzon (which is fighting being closed down) in Chinatown, Sir John Soane Museum (all sorts of collected bits and bobs and new techniques in art displays within confined spaces- this guy was a mega horder of the coolest kind), Islington Museum- fantastic display on the heritage of the area and Trade super club which was the precursor to the likes of Fabric and EGG. Hackney (love). Royal Court Theatre, Harrods Christmas windows. Wandering, wandering, talking, nattering, interacting, wandering- places of kook and interest all over- love Wapping and the squirrels in Hyde Park ^=^
Any culture that grinds to a halt at 3pm for tea and cake is bloody fantastic in my books.
My Grandfather John McIlwaine was a graduate of The Royal College among others and this was my number 1 hitter to do in London. He was an utterly incredible soul and has left a void in me and within my family when he passed two years ago. Some people are simply incredible, but these ones never fade because they revisit us forever in our memories. My grandfathers legacy not only lives on in the etherial and emotional, but in the peoples lives he touched and saved- this is truly magnificent. Hunterian is utterly fascinating filled with specimens in jars and formaldehyde alongside developments in medicine and surgery apparatus and techniques. Hours of queeze inducing oogly googling and for me a very powerful, emotional and moving day- nothing like having a bit of a blub between the disection of a newt and a malignant tumor taken from the brain.
John Hunter (1728-1793) came to London in 1748 at the age of 20 and worked as an assistant in the anatomy school of his elder brother William (1718-83), who was already an established physician and obstetrician. Under William's direction, John learnt human anatomy and showed great aptitude in the dissection and preparation of specimens. William also arranged for him to study under the eminent surgeons William Cheselden (1688-1752) and Percivall Pott (1714-88).
While most of his contemporaries taught only human anatomy, Hunter's lectures stressed the relationship between structure and function in all kinds of living creatures. Hunter believed that surgeons should understand how the body adapted to and compensated for damage due to injury, disease or environmental changes. He encouraged students such as Edward Jenner and Astley Cooper to carry out experimental research and to apply the knowledge gained to the treatment of patients.
Hunter is today remembered as a founder of `scientific surgery'. He was unique in seeking to provide an experimental basis to surgical practice, and his museum is a lasting record of his pioneering work.
#2 Zaha Hadid Studio and Gallery
Zaha Hadid has been one of my greatest inspirations as a female creative and a designer since I studied Industrial Design at university. She is ballsy, unique, driven and contemporary and I deeply admire her spirit and direction. So much so that I incorporated a small stylised portion of one of her drawings into the design I drew for my tattoo.
I love how her work transcends creative disciplines from automobile design to shoes, to jewellery, home decor and fashion. She loves to collaborate and transcend the boundaries of what is art, sculpture, form, and space. I adore her use of modern materials and processes; frequently employing cutting edge technology to create magnificent products, maquettes and architectural models.
Zaha Hadid Studio and Gallery
Dame Zaha Mohammad Hadid, DBE (Arabic: زها حديد Zahā Ḥadīd; born 31 October 1950) is an Iraqi-British architect. In 2004 she became the first woman recipient of the Pritzker Architecture Prize. In 2014 the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre, designed by her, won the Design Museum Design of the Year Award, making her the first woman to win the top prize in that competition.
Her buildings are distinctively neofuturistic, characterised by the "powerful, curving forms of her elongated structures" with "multiple perspectivepoints and fragmented geometry to evoke the chaos of modern life". She is currently professor at the University of Applied Arts Vienna in Austria.
#3 The Victoria & Albert Museum
If I die doing what I love you can snuffle an urn into one of the displays anyyyywhere in amongst here. Oh my gawwwwwwd check you out you mega champ of historic collections. Victoria & Albert= winnnnnner. Plus a bloody fine pistachio tea cake as part of the Indian textile display ;)
As the world's leading museum of art and design, the V&A enriches people's lives by promoting the practice of design and increasing knowledge, understanding and enjoyment of the designed world. The architecture and space in itself is devine and you can sit, sketch, or attach yourself to one of the guided tours that are taken hehe
#4 Petrie Museum- University College London
The Petrie Museum houses an estimated 80,000 objects, making it one of the greatest collections of Egyptian and Sudanese archaeology in the world. A jaw dropping, look like a fish oogling hours whittering experience of incredible relics. It illustrates life in the Nile Valley from prehistory through the time of the pharaohs, the Ptolemaic, Roman and Coptic periods to the Islamic period.
#5 The Pollock Toy Museum
This kkkkooooooky- actually kind of beejeeber instilling and slightly creepy museum has a Victorian feel and is up there with places I would rather NOT be locked into at night. I creeped my way around the low ceilinged rooms and discovered toys from other ages and realised that yeeep- ceramic dolls and clowns do have a strange effect on my subconscious.
Pollocks Toy Museum was started in 1956 in a single attic room at 44 Monmouth Street, near Covent Garden, where Pollock's Toy Theatres were also sold. As the enterprise flourished, other rooms were taken over for the museum and the ground floor became a toyshop. By 1969 the collection had outgrown the Monmouth Street premises and Pollock's Toy Museum moved to 1 Scala Street, with a museum shop on the ground floor to contribute to its support. The museum continues today to be run by the grandson of the founder Marguerite Fawdry.
🇬🇧 🇬🇧 ☕ 🍰 ☕ 🇬🇧 🇬🇧
Clouds in Your Sky
The necessity of selflessness and self knowledge; transcending the ego, searching for ourselves is as junkies to an obliterating passion.
In nature animals follow the heard, fish swim in the sea, sloths lie in the trees, koala get high off leaves; the trees grow to the sun and the stars shine their brightest yet humans are driven to pursue conquest, process and duty; in some cases to circumnavigate directly striving to be the essence of what our hearts drive us towards.
It is not everyone's dream to be good and moral, nor is it everyone's path to strive for self acceptance or knowledge. This journey, with varying amounts of success, the search for self : is both flawed and contradictory... which is also kinda what makes it so fun! I believe we need to know why we have become the person we are, and that by embracing risk and uncertainty we can convert fear into fire which fuels our compulsion to grow and strive to be better.
We strive to accept ourselves in order to be individual, and surrender our limitations and desires in a fruitless search for free conscious. But conscious is the chatter and we are but parts of different packs- there is no way to be individual because just by trying you put yourself in another group. Often these contradictions and evaluations have caused me both joy and contemplation. My passions and appearance align me on first impression to others into many stereotypes- which can be a means to an end of finding amazing individuals who see value in investing time beyond their initial estimations. Many people also don't take notice of the finer subtle details i.e.: the difference between being tattooed with your own design v another's or other subtle shifts or motivations. I love playing and exploring these concepts with others because as with making things, there is no other way to do this than to throw yourself in and get going. Interaction is ultimately un-emulateable and impossible to recreate and in my opinion is the most creative thing a person can ever do for themselves and others; push to evolve.
Self knowledge/ acceptance is a circular path with no beginning; end nor resolution. By running around this track without recognising and validating growth and achievement we become engaged on a journey in loop. My brain dislikes loops- it prefers open ended tangents with fluttery ends in opportunity which makes it very important to substantiate personal growth. But hey!- what can be more fascinating than figuring out these things for within this is the secrets of the Universe and all that is around us.
The part of conscious which wants to change itself IS the part to be changed- which is impossible. Here comes the money-shot: because in this liberating awareness you realise your looping Monkey brain; which believes it is driving the manifestation of motives and desires, is completely selfish- limited and false. A rather humiliating, bracing and necessary slap in the moosh- but one where I hit a middle line. In some ways immensely pessimistic in a glorious optimism. Pooof! I stopped fighting with myself. We know contentment is not found in money, things or places- but I challenge that the pursuit in itself has to be moderated into measure. An advertisement for a product you already own; you don't need an upgrade; the ad ultimately looks dated and hilarious in hindsight. What a privilege it is to even have time to concern myself with the concept.
To some there is a concept of life journey where you must come through earning your stripes as we say, bringing you to a point where you are allowed to see the world for the incredible joyous place it is. An environment in which we are allowed to shine with our energy and no exceptions. Actually, just as we would unquestionably give to this to a child- as an adult we deserve this too.
An active mind, strong will, adventurous spirit is my gunpowder but we all have our special ways of carving our lines. Opinion is cloud in the sky, beautifully obscuring the view of the vastness beyond: the realisation of the enormity and diversity of experience. A shift in thinking our brain and abilities makes and decides all our life decisions- for me a recognition of my arrogance to assume my brain and actions in totality control my world without being woven into an energy bigger than myself.
If you are an apple you cannot become a banana, nor can a potato be incorporated into a fruit salad- yet each has it's own place; an experience and gift unique to the core of it's flavour. The best is brought out when combined correctly with the right paring and celebrated. However dear vegetables and fruits, we have the right to choose what bowl we jump into and what shapes we are chopping up as!
I knew very early what my path in life was, what my true gift to give and where my passions and strengths lie and that I can sense and feel differently to others- but I wavered and succumbed to jealousy and pressure, from my community and myself to shape and remould. A wonderful and vibrant path with positives, negatives, variation and in no way anything which I regret, an incredible life- but I believe the calmness in myself, the connection I feel in my heart and the world I am inhabiting, and the concept of what I must do next is my calling on track. There are many many ways to work, live and exist in this life. I realised mine is enriched by faith in the energy around me and powers bigger than myself.
In this blog there are no photos, no advice, no pointers on places to go in London and where I am now because it is of no consequence. The only things, the most joyous things I have, are the connection to what I am here on this earth to do; to give and to proceed with, and a knowledge it will happen. My knowledge, impressions and perspective are nothing to you but clouds in your horizon of perspective.
You do not need a guidebook, or a map or opinions on places and experience- especially you do not need those- see heavy obscuring thunderstorm looming. You don't need friends and people to hold your hand- go GET the people, or make them along the way and go PLAY; likeminded people drop in together. Our paths find ways to get us on track- it is fruitless to fight being. Dreams and personal passions don't need to be 'liked' or aired to others. In my experience the amazing things you will produce will create the most resistance- you WANT this; it means it's unique, challenging and counterpoint to the norm. The frequency of our souls sing when you hit the travellator- it clicks in place and your dreams conspire and whisper between themselves to manifest in reality. Urg: Unfortunate use of the word of the moment; but it flows. Our instincts tell us when it feels and smells right- we can see it and sense it in others and this is reflected within ourselves.
I do not propose to have the answers. I have nice big wobbly flaws, but just as the shoelace on my Chucks has two ends so does every spectrum- our flaws are only on the other end of our beauty. I know my story and continue with my own, as to live, to laugh, to be alive is an immense privilege. We are but versions of the same with unlimited, untapped potential; each generation a little further refined, just like an app update ;) Perhaps this is where my love of youth and children lies, because I know they will be a little 'more' than I am and can be. I have always adored my elders; to hear and share their knowledge and experience is a gift so special. In myself; I know and posses more than some and less than others, but hit the world with arms wide.
This being is not to ‘exist to exist’ as this is to assume sitting and waiting- doing nothing in some enlightened and transcended state. Fight for what you want and open your eyes to opportunity; it’s eeeeeeeeverywhere in so many different forms. It is irresistible to feel and compelling to experience the terror of the Unknown. The Heart looks after itself- give a banana to the Monkey brain and chase your horizon.
I challenge that humans come full loop. That the essence of ourselves and our passions is set rather early on and that success; flow and enjoyment in WHATEVER we really really love (whether that is plucking chooks to playing the stock exchange) and decide is our vocation. This harks back to things we took up early on in childhood. It is another chapter in the kids in the sandpit story I shared when I advertised this direction through indiegogo. When we are little in kindergarten there are all the different personalities in the sandpit- the kid eating the sand, the child building amazing things, the tot who has ALL the toys and won’t share, the whippersnapper who desperately wants to be IN the sandpit with everyone else yet is terrified to get in. As we grow- we take and add skills and techniques onto this essential core of our personalities. The culinary master, the architect or engineer, the Mum, the property mogul.. but we all want to be in there playing together, even the ones who are not sure- who may only want to touch the sand then retreat until they feel the need or desire to try another component of the game.
I am referring to predisposition. When you start snowboarding (or skateboarding or surfing) the easiest way to figure out what is your ‘dominant’ leg (i.e. the leg which will be in-front when you direct where you are going) is to get someone to come up behind you and give you a surprising shove from behind. Whatever leg you put out first to break your fall is the leader. Goofy with right in front, natural with left. I ride goofy- no surprises there lol; I can go into all sorts of funny anecdotes to life with picking your riding/ chairlift/ snow partners that occurs from the mix you encounter in your friends and other fellow mountain buddies. But what I am trying to get across here, is that we tend towards a preference. It’s SOO much fun to explore these things though- in WHATEVER capacity, and figure out what we like- or don’t like. It goes both ways however- if you TRULY are an asshole deep down then you will come to terms with that also and collect others who share your energy. I find though its nice to go with what's natural- what feels good and gives you that slightly sick/ air turbulence/ heart flutter/ borderline similar to fear response in our chests and bodies. I am an adrenaline junkie- this feeling is what I crave and love- it's the skippy purr next to my heart which makes my cheeks pink and lights my eyes.
My decisions and curiosities don’t keep me in the mainstream. I find and make friends where I go but I am not tied into perpetrating networks with people that life has let pass on, or that I need to hold my hand- but this is anything but easy. There is a difference between aloneness and loneliness though. I love aloneness (which can be packed with people!) but loneliness is the shadow below that leaf that can be easy to slip into until the back catalogue of acceptance and understanding catches up. THIS is what I am always learning more about- a recognition and acceptance of my emotions and feelings. One is solid cheddar- one is hole-y Swiss ;)
My internal compass and direction and drive for what I want can set me apart from the group but I am very much a pack animal. Perhaps more the lone wolf of this pack who desires exploration and discovery; who needs time apart to chase opportunity- but I also love nothing more than to care and be cared for in environments with diversity. We can take on skills left, right and centre- we can work our way in and back out of habits, addictions and behaviour- but you can't pick up nor discard passion. We reorder our vices in order to make room for other ones- hopefully more productive pastimes. Given encouragement our Hearts drive us through and past our fears towards our loves.
What did you do in your childhood that is highlighted in colour? Right off the bat makes you smile and your heart jump a little?
Tokyo | Motegi | Nikko | Rental819 | Yamaha MT09 850 & Takashi Murakami
Have you ever noticed how we have one hard emotion eye, and one soft? Sometime what split you can see in these pools of soul is incredible. Passion, desire, pain, deceit; each eye is different and how they mix together in our gaze totally fascinates me; is it left/ right brain; good and bad.. I am not sure; but it is totally intriguing! Eyes don't lie- and what you can recognise and see in them is the true essence of a person's spirit. I am constantly fascinated by our species and how we grow and interact; these clues and subtle awarenesses shape our lives and relationships. I love eyes, and I love smiles- do. what. you. love. because it shows.
You are me, I am you- the person in front of you is on a path you could have decided to walk or is to come in your future. Dare to create your desires.
I decided to completely trust my brain, instincts and skills and leave Tokyo on a three day adventure riding the brand new Yamaha MT09 with no GPS, two destinations and a belief, that between my knowledge, navigation, memory, decisions, and the tendency field of the universe (faith in self, trust, instincts; it's all the same thing)- it would all work out. Everything came together perfectly.
Fate is another name for Karma, which is another name for Time, which is another name for Love.
I dont belive in Luck- we make decisions that define our place and progress in this world, and I don't hippy-dippy completely hands-off-wheel rely 'on the Universe to provide' because we live in the modern world, with modern consumerist needs- we impact resources and opportunities by our actions within this. I believe in hard work, kindness and energy- and have learnt over time, that we have everything + more than we expect and that worry is completely counterproductive, and just another sneaky form of fear. It's there because it is love and doubt- we want to make the best decisions, to keep our loved ones and ourselves safe; it creates hesitation and reflection, but I've learnt over time, how to work with this emotion; not trying to change, suppress or ignore it. Often that big 'worry' we've been building like Jenga is an ash pile once we really get down the road up close. I DO believe however that we can do the best with that Monkey brain- but really, all you need to do is just open your heart, eyes and ears and just BE. The universe works- you are part of it; we ARE it- there is a bigger force than my thought and brain which is so immensely limited in comparison, and chained by ego and interpretation.
I can be a lavish squirrel with my resources- gather, stockpile, accumulate; building the pile bigger and bigger and then I'll use them up with generous and excited abandon- right before winter dawns- propelling myself into having to re-create the pile again in order to preempt the situations I see in the future. Yes- this has given me more stripes than a zebra in a line up in how to make things work- but took a few years to learn how to get the oil and water mix right without complete worry combustion. My creativity works best with a little fire behind but not with the whole damn tree on fire!
Our brains left to their own devices can become wired in loop- and negative worry bubbles go round with much more velocity than positive ones, but we can learn to change these patterns. The brain is a magnificent engine, we can teach it wonderful new tricks and indulge in thought that diminishes limitations. I call my moving passions (motorcycling and snowboarding are two biggies) 'moving mediation' because it allows me to quickly access the boundless capacity of blank thought which is to the right of this rutted racetrack. My monkey brain is focusing on the obstacles and situations infront of me, while my conscious can float free.
After locking on the the concept that 'yes- I am totally going to hunt down that incredible new Yamaha MT09 I have been dreaming about', I started amassing my nut pile and got in contact with the wonderful gentlemen at Rental819. I met with these souls last time I was in Tokyo and did a road trip with the new Ducati Monster. I cannot urge you enough to contact them if you are keen to make your own motorbike adventure memories- they are phenomenal to deal with. With brand new bikes, comprehensive insurance, English speaking staff, Dianese gear and Shoei helmets- you are set to go on the right foot feeling comfortable and looked after. Rental819 have locations all around Japan and a huge selection of perfectly maintained Triumph, Ducati, KTM, BMW, Honda, Yamaha, Harley- Davison, Suzuki, Kawasaki and other brands bikes for you to ride- ya can't beat them! Special mention going out to Adrian, Kosuke Eguchi, Yosuke and Tsutomu Tanaka at Ikebukuro- どうもありがとうございました!
Tokyo in the middle of Shibuya Hatchiko crossing on Halloween- W.O.W
T.O.K.Y.O.- it's the most incredible place on earth and filled with other motorbike enthusiasts- I met an Indonesian motorbike racer called Mak and had the pleasure to share his passion for the Motegi race circuit and surrounding facilities. It was great to have company on day one- riding with others brings another dynamic to the motorcycling experience.
Motegi ツインリンクもてぎ
Motegi Circuit and a full moon rising 🌝
Ducking and diving through traffic and making our way out of Tokyo was superb complex fun and we aimed in the direction of Motegi. Famous for the Motegi GP motorbike race, Twin Ring Motegi is a motorsport venue with facilities bursting with goodies. While there I was spoilt rotten to meet with the team and riders putting the unreleased Yamaha M1 through it's paces around the circuit (vid below)- a fantastic highlight, but there are racing simulators, goKarting, mini-bikes, shops, onsen, restaurants and other things to keep you busy also.
Click to play
The Yamaha MT09 just puuuuuurrrs. Combing the best of the Triumph and the MV Agusta Brutalle, plus extras I had soO much pleasure playing with this machine! The high torque 3-cylinder engine clicks in with the most beautiful purr- literally- and between 5 and 9,000 rpm the MT09 sings. With three settings A, B, and Standard you can start your day moving up and down through the settings to match how you are feeling, the conditions and how you want to ride. With 115hp - 87,5 Nm it's got ooph in all the best ways- equipped with ABS it stops on the head of pin and shoots with adrenaline on the take off. Immensely nimble and very responsive to peg weighting the MT performed more like the III than the lighter Agusta. Perfect for touring, was fantastic for whipping around Tokyo central and handled amazingly on the gravel. I. HAD. SO. MUCH. FUN! Repeating Houston!- I. HAD. SoooOO. MUCH. Fun- yeah, you know you want to go try for yourself now!
Keeping with tradition: This bike is a mercurial triple agent. Tapping into what is needed with etherial and logical adeptness- she has already figured out what you need before you have. Sugar, spice and all things nice- you'll be playing a uphill game to oneup this intellectual mega babe. This minx has all the cards and she'll be playing them without fanfare but class so sleek you'll be begging for more.
^ GoKarting yyeeehaaww~! < Motorcyclist's run on our stomachs! Japanese food + onsen + motorbikes = bliss
The Honda Collection Hall Museum is a must see. With level one dedicated to the developments of artificial intelligence, two motorbikes through the decades and three cars. I ❤ Honda museum! My first proper motorbike was a Honda VTR 250 while my Dad loved the VFR800's: superb engineering- easy to work on and 110% reliable: Japan you winner ;)
My #1 riding buddy- my Da and our old beloved Honda bikes :)
The history of Soichro Honda in manga- ♥ learning!
🍁🍄 🍂 🍃🌿 🌾 🌿🍃 🍂🍄🍁
Nikko 日光
Day two brought Mak and I splitting ways after a competitive race around the goKarts (the decider not influencing our travel plans!) and back into the game of mental highway bingo for me to make my way to Nikko. Known for it's stunning scenery with the change of seasons and beautiful temples I totally recommend it as a day trip from Tokyo. There are regular trains and lots to do and see- so making a long weekend of it is highly recommended.
Nikko Toshogu Shrine
This time of the year (late October onwards) is perfect to see the changing colours of the flora and fauna and be wrapped in the pastel hues of autumn light.
The detail of the woodwork and panelling in these temples is phenominal.
There are many different activities, onsen, sites and museums in Nikko- and although it can be a bit heavy in tourist population, if you hit the sites late evening and early morning it's rather chill. The countryside is stunning up in Tochigi prefecture- I'm already looking forwards to the next time I can visit.
That's the face of an incredibly happy motorbike furrball post 450km round trip! ;) Japan roads are left hand drive, can be quite variable in conditions and the IEC toll highways pack a $ sucker punch. I took the local highways, which meant more changes and turns, but less cost and didn't get lost by riding on my memory and instincts. The highways system is logical, I can read & decipher Hiragana and Katakana, but even without this skill there is English pointers here and there (& tbh- deciphering can be a stressful skill than being blissfully ignorant to all the additional information coming at you!)- trust your gut and the process and have some serious FUN!
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Tokyo 東京
Tokyo Where to start?! This city is friggin amazeballs. There is something for everyone and it's a dream to travel around. Safe, logical, something interesting (and tasty!) at every turn- this megalopolis holds a very special place in my heart. I was thrilled to be back for meetings, catch ups with old friends and new, and to check out events. While back for the week I was delighted to go to the just opened '500 Arhats' exhibit by Takashi Murakami at the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi.
Taken at sunset from Mori Art Museum looking over to Tokyo Tower
One of my favourite artists and a creative who I have much admiration for his ethos and direction; Murakami is a Japanese art powerhouse. He exploded onto the Western art scene with a collaboration with Louis Vuitton and the worldwide visual combustion of his 'Superflat' cartoon pop characters. At the time, I was in New York, and every it girl, poster advertisement and fakie merchant was wearing and pushing his and LV's goodies. What I love about Murakami is that he embraces high and low consumerism; viewers and the ordinary consumer are encouraged by him to continue to engage with the work on whatever platform they have- highlighted in this exhibition by being allowed and encouraged to take photos of the art and share on social media. He is fascinated with exploring hopelessness- yet his work often evokes feelings in viewers quite the opposite; he is the quintessential Japanese mix of colour and darkness, good and bad, traditional and modern.
The epic The 500 Arhats (2012), a 3-meterhigh, 100-meter-long painting of the 500 enlightened followers (Arhats) of Buddha, created in response to the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. Some large sculptural pieces and abstract paintings are also included. This work explores the power of prayer and how this transcends religious differences through the exploration of finite life and the infinite nature of the universe. It allows us to understand Murakami's new artistic interests and directions.
Real, forthright; an ardent supporter of young artists and consistently true to his vision, his work is enthralling, energising, modern, technologically embracing and brilliant.
🍁🍄 🍂 🍃🌿 🌾 🌿🍃 🍂🍄🍁
Kamakura 鎌倉市
Kamakura is a really nifty and relaxed seaside city an hour and a bit out of Tokyo. Surrounded by small mountains on three sides and the Pacific Ocean to the south, you can enjoy swimming, hiking and surfing in the clean ocean air. Famous for the great Daibutsu Buddha located at the Kotokuin Temple in Hase, and the location of the first Buddhist Zen Temple in Japan, the area is steeped in history, yet maintains a funky, relaxed and easygoing feeling.
^ You can jump on the train at Shinjuku and for ¥1470 get to Fujisawa where you change onto a local train. You can jump on and off this one as many times as you like on your day pass and enjoy the attractions along the way. The local train is gorgeous and was a juxtaposition from the city connect where people were engrossed in their cellphones. The local winds gently thorough the residencies to Kamakura with people chatting and interacting along the way.
At 11.312m in height the Great Buddha is a sight to see and fascinated me as it is cast and joined from bronze. The interior is hollow and you can walk around inside. It really is a wonder to behold in person and it's majesty is surrounded by stunning gardens.
Along with the Buddha I was keen to see the largest sculpture of Kannon (Guanyin Bodhisattva) at the Hasedera Temple (above pictured with Buddha's feet). Golden, carved from wood and standing at 9.18m it is breathtaking and exudes reverence. However it was the cave and winding catacombe below that really fasicnated me. Filled with hundreds of small sculptures and statues of worship it is a powerful and spiritual experience as you wind through bent double as the ceiling is so low. Outside the Ojizō-sama statues (pictured below) allow us to remember and pray to the Guardian of Children for the protection of those living and past 🙏🏻
Ojizō-sama statues
In hindsight, potentially a night here would have been lovely, but that may be for another trip. The ease of transport in Japan encourages and allows for access to spectacular opportunities. Wherever you go there is something fascinating to entice the senses- if you are like me, your curiosity can only be rewarded. Being curious means you are engaged- and being engaged means you are learning, to me this is the key to happiness, appreciation and being content.
すばらしい!😜
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Japan Autumn Festival Time! 🍃🌿🌾🍄🍂🍁
The leaves are slowly changing from gold to burnt terracotta, the days are getting shorter, the sunsets getting more vivid and slooooowly, ever so gently, Japan is slipping into winter. It's simply glorious.
Unlike my home in New Zealand where gale force winds, extremes and theatricality of weather patterns and a shunting, pushing and less visual departmentalising of the seasons gathers us up and deposits us in colder months, Japan is so very much more elegant about this transition. Dare I say; more organic. Although I miss the push and pull- the fever and passion of New Zealand's weather, climate and landscape is intrinsically woven into my psyche. Yin and Yang. Living in an environment where I haven't had to worry about 'bringing things in', 19 incase items of clothing or the environmental challenges of getting from A to B, has been really pleasurable- but has made me giggle as my mind still thinks these things over.
I love a party, and especially here positivity is accompanying this new period in Japan. It is a time of celebration, reflection and progression- looking forwards to winter and what delights this brings. The intensity and passion of the autumn festival happenings is totally infectious and kinetic. Being a winter bunny at heart I adore the tidings of colder months as they announce opportunity for adventure; snow and playtime within. But as I get older I understand more the longing and sadness of some for Summer, with her gentle comforts, easier living and melancholy that leaving another quarter of memories behind can bear.
Tonosho Hashimangu Shrine
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Memories and longing are an immensely powerful emotional combination- ones that encourage us to turn back, to live in the past, as they can become glossier and massively assertive. But these must be looked at, cared for, touched and placed BACK into the filing cabinet with love and respect- because we cannot go that direction. That can be tremendously hard- I find this tremendously hard. Yes, we must be positive, but we can love and hold our negative. The environment of Japan for me hightens this need as it itself is not encompassing of negative. Japanese language is extremely complex when communicating anything dissentient; all the niceness can get you a little in need of an outlet! But this is my story, my experience- you will carve your own and come to your own values. For me it comes down to love- for others, for myself, for the world we have the pleasure to inhabit. I was given a heavy dosing of this to give and have experienced the full spectrum of love beyond measure; it is a gift to continue best as I can to keep this wheel going and build on it. Being loved makes you brave but to give love makes you fearless.
Each morning I have my Inspector Gaget talk with myself: “Your mission today, if you choose to accept it… blah blah blah what I am working on”. Priority positive number one. Yes it may make me want me to ‘self destruct in 5 seconds’ at some point during the day- but I remind myself: in the morning you chose to accept this, and you can get through. My injuries, the physical pain and discomfit I am now in most days by mid-afternoon greatly affects my psyche and I need mental reminders like this to put things back in perspective. I am a fix it, add to it, sort it personality- if I do not mentally do this I have a catalogue of negative behaviours which I can revert to. I prefer not to- I look at them and think- ‘Been there, done that, got the t-shit, puked on it, washed it, re-wore it… rather wear something else thank you for your reminder ;) they were interesting times in the past”.
Other times- when I have bitten off a large chunk of action to chew on and I feel I might be getting speed wobbles, I remember when I first started snowboarding. I LOVE snowboarding, snow, mountain action. I LOVED keeping up with my partner who was much better than me at that point- and I am fiercely competitive. I would smash myself up quite horrendously when I was learning how to ride- they say pushing 6% more than what you currently sit at is a healthy amount of stress indusive to bettering yourself. I used to go redline in almost everything. There are two ways down the mountain. You can heel side it and grind your way to the bottom; yep you got there, but it was painful for everyone involved. Or you can ease off a notch and get in flow. I highly recommend going through option one and coming quickly to option two- especially to conserve the old relationship matters- I learnt to just stop and sit down- yeah you get a wet bum, but the cluster-fuck will pass and worse case scenario; it all comes out in the wash.
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Some say ‘We can become what we fear’ which is why I am here. I push to face my demons but realisation does not come from fear. I brought myself back here to get down and dirty with the sugar, the spice and the inbetween that makes me me because by b.e.i.n.g I also make some amazing productive things, become a better person and meet wonderful other humans that are going through life learning and living. Just like my surroundings, I am transitioning from this with enlightenment, bumps, colour and new viewpoints- but it aint all gloss and never will be- but that’s me; and this is LIFE- I want the whole hog; the extremes; but I didn’t want to recognise the price I must pay for this- I had to become even with the things that haunted me also. The wonderful thing about growing through transition and active participation is that when we re-group our metaphysics, we are inevitably a better, stronger version than before.
Fear is stressful. In small doses it can be indusive to pushing us beyond our limits- but in larger portions it can be immensely counterproductive. However- sometimes it can be very hard to distinguish what is pleasure and what is pain. I garner an extra ordinate amount of pleasure out of what may be considered pain, or another way of looking at it may be my pain threshold is too high; along with my expectation threshold of the ones who love me to watch or join me on this path; and I have an underestimation of the cost of this. This being pysical, mental, emotional and spiritual. When you are more intimately connected with your surroundings you are intune and feeding off every energy. There is nothing to fear, but worries must be worked out and through. I do not fear death, or love or life- those cornerstones, I believe, make circumstances where you rise with the connections you feel rather than blocking or imposing barriers because of perceived image or ego.
I love walking at night. In dodgy areas, we puff proud and resolute when passing under the streetlights- showing off our plumage; strong, impenetrable, ain’t buying into the danger around us and when the darkness envelops us, quicken our steps and get on through to the next lamp where we can open our wings. But where I see the true art is to slow down and feel and experience the dark and deal with what comes at you, just like in the light; with genuine integrity, passion and respect. I am primal- fear is what makes me feel, instinct is what drives me and a drive to be better, to know myself and accept myself for the whole package. It’s absolutely fucking terrifying sometimes.
The one me has many angles- there are many hats, many facets and one helluva conscious and internal monolog. I met someone once who said they had absolutely no little voice in their head- totally blindsided me. I'm happy with mine until the day it goes silent- then I know somethings serious really is up! Is mine my creativity?- I believe it is my heart and spirit and I have unequivocal intuition to follow it. I give less of a fuck about worrying about it. Shake it like a polaroid baby and just shine as is. The world is huge- you will inevitably find others who think similar- let the haters slip to the wayside- there are shit loads of 'em if you are flying your flag high, but there also comes the people who respect and understand how hard it is to do just that. I am honest, unique and not everyones favourite jelly bean- but I am true to myself and what my radar inclines me ride- and I get you- I see the how, the why and I don’t judge for it. You are what you are- and there comes a point when you realise that self evaluation, self bettering is actually completely counterproductive and useless- you. are. what. you. are. just get. ooooon wit it.
An old employer said to me once “I get the impression that when you walk down the street, you are the type of person that when a crazy is coming towards you, you don’t avert your eyes- you SEE them”. Hell yes. Don’t avert your eyes. My journey has taken me to the brink, past and back into the light so there is no fear for me in what I can see in others. I understand journeys are our own and the complexities that these will bring. I unabashedly air (in my head) my dirty laundy and hang it out to dry on a daily basis.. and then make more and have to do another load in a few days time. Took me a long time to stop getting pissed that the laundry basket kept filling up and none else was helping me unfill it though- but as I get older the washing pile is greatly diminishing also!
We have the answers inside us. They don’t exist in a relationship or a belonging. Experience gives us a bigger toolkit and sometimes makes it harder to select actually what tool you now need- but whoever upstairs dealt out why and how we are has put us here to take these and use them to effect. I, just like us all, get the wrong tool, don’t think I have the right tool and freak out sometimes I NEEEEEED more tools- but it simply is not the case. Nothing like sending yourself to an island in the middle of a completely different culture to move on with this and many other wonderful perspectives. Experience is knowledge, knowledge is power, but coming to grips with the effect this has is compassionate love for yourself. Fuck the art- thats a product of yesterdays news; experience and these learning lessons- ain’t this what it’s all about in life?
The world will spin, we will be up, down, and sideways- but inevitably we have new days and these hold the most incredible opportunity for living- untagged and unlabelled as a nominated name or vocation and get to bumping, cuddling, clicking and jiving our energy with the other spirits that inhabit our zone. On darker days, yes put a smile on your dial, but you don’t have to ‘fake it till you make it’-- we all have pain. Have a sit in the park, close the eyes and listen to your breath- the birds- the engines- the footsteps- and feel what colour you are beautiful human… wait, it will change.. enjoy this change and LOOK at it from all angels, turn it over and give it a squish and watch it develop, and resume your day with that just b.e.i.n.g, being the exceptional ok. ॐ
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o-O ⭕️ 〰 👀 〰 ⭕️ O-o
Last time I was in the Setouchi islands and visited Teshima I missed going to Teshima Yokoo House. Well Well WELL- sooo happy I went for a round two. Every day is different and seeing the other art installations and presentations three months later was fascinating all over in new lights. Gotta say though- I'm now a rather big fan of Yokoo. His work is colourful, thought provoking and intriguing- the architecture of this installation is fascinating. I spun around and around with my arms wide in the mirrored 'chimney' lined with postcards of waterfalls and thoroughly enjoyed what this did to my senses!
The "Teshima Yokoo House", a collaboration between artist Tadanori Yokoo and architect Yuko Nagayama, was created by altering and renovating an old private house located in a hamlet in the Ieura District, facing the harbor that forms the entrance to Teshima Island. Making full use of the building's existing layout, the exhibition areas are divided into a "Main House," a "Warehouse," and an "Outhouse," displaying 11 two-dimensional works. Other features–a stone garden with a pond, and a cylindrical tower–are devoted to installations, so that the art spaces seem to expand symbolically to cover the entire site, making it a philosophical zone that simultaneously calls to mind thoughts of both life and death. Thanks to the building's use of tinted glass to control light and color, the sunshine, breezes, and natural hues of the island, as well as the artworks themselves, assume a range of different appearances, turning visitors' spatial experience into a series of interconnected collages.
Concept＆Artworks: Tadanori Yokoo Architecture: Yuko Nagayama
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'感' | MeiPAM1 AIR Exhibition | 10/10/15 - 6/12
'感' - (Kan)【カン】- feeling, sensation, emotion, impression
Kabooya everyboootayy! Another ripper is on display!
I invite you to this link where you can see the artwork in stills and background information to the work produced. Below is a video walkthrough of the exhibition- come have a looksee!
The products of my month so far as artist in residence at MeiPAM Gallery, Tonosho, Shodoshima- Japan is now on display at MeiPAM1. Running from 10/10/15 until 6/12 I have been generously allocated the whole of level 2 but you can also see previous participants of AIR on level three: Tim Prebble (NZ), Katarina SkarHenriksen (Norway) and Alexander Clinthorne (America).
̃o.O O_o O.o @.@ ❂.❂ ▧.▨ ○.◎ ▧.▨ ❂.❂ @.@ O.o O_o ̃o.O
Deluxe Cafe Pop-Up - Wellington and Takamatsu - Japan
Next time you are down Embassy Theatre way on Courtney Place, Wellington- pop into Deluxe cafe, grab a Havana espresso and have a geeze (visit my shop to purchase) the Moena Moxham art up for display until the 11th of October.
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TAKAMATSU (Ⓘ.Ⓘ)
I had heard about the Ritsurin Gardens in Takamatsu and was in need of some music and city life so decided to make a three day weekend adventure and exploration of the first stop on Shikoku- Japan's less densely populated fourth island. Having past through here in April on the way to Naoshima and back though again on the way to Himeji, I was intrigued to explore this area in greater depth as it felt like it had much more to give.
Photo credit Diasuke Uchida
Photo credit Diasuke Uchida
Takamatsu is very cool- it has a great relaxed but funky attitude- it's creative and quirky but with just enough city and island life mix. As the main port town to Shikoku there is a little something of everything. But what I have been seeking this trip is very different from the last- environment, the land, people and energy has taken top priority- and of that the more tranquil, deep and esoteric kind. Nature does it best.
No photo is going to do this place justice unfortunately! SO. Stunnnnning.
Among the gardens in Japan designated as National Special Scenic Beauty, Ritsurin Garden is the largest. Construction started around 1625 by Takatoshi Ikoma, the feudal lord of Takamatsu, and took about 100 years with successive feudal lords to complete in 1745. The garden has six ponds and thirteen mounds strategically placed to use Mt Shiun as a background. Different flowers bloom all year round, changing the scenery as you walk. "One step, one scenery."
The garden also has an excellent reputation overseas. It was given three stars as the highest-rated, worth-visiting place for sightseeing in the Michelin Green Guide Japan in 2009. It did not fail to please- so much so I went back twice. It is truly stunning and very varied- each area has a unique feeling and spirit.
My friend had told me about a great live music venue down on the waterfront called AO which is part of a funky cafe called Umie and they had a live music event with a female Japanese musician called Minakumari and her friends. Made up of a sitar. guitar and harmonica combo it sounded interesting... they were SUPERB. Like mind-blowing! I have never heard a sitar or harmonica played like it- it was soul, mind and heart nourishment- see the wee video above :)
Best place to stay in Takamatsu- conveniently located (30 mins stroll from the port or two train clips), super clean, comfy and the rooms are extra dark so you get super long ..^.^..zZzzZZ!- Traditional Apartment
There is world class shopping, oisshiiii udon noodles, art, craft, gardens, nightlife and great spots to check out and have a gander. The pace is relaxed and I would definitely come back to Shikoku to see and explore more.
I traveled up to Busshozan to explore the onsen- alas this one was strict on tattoos. But I had a wonderful afternoon regardless; thankfully being an adventure rather than the destination gal anyhow, but a little FYI for anyone with ink as it's not on their website :)
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Artist in Residence MeiPAM Gallery | Shodoshima - 小豆島, Japan
MeiPAM Gallery- Location one of four sites around Tonosho
Shodoshima is the second largest island in the Seto Inland Sea and one of the first islands born to the gods in the creation myth of Japan. The name literally means "small bean island", which technically refers to the azuki bean but today would more fittingly refer to the soy bean or olive as the island has traditionally been a producer of soy sauce and now is even better known for its olive plantations.
Shodo attracts visitors with its Mediterranean atmosphere, offering beaches, resorts, coastal sceneries and a mountainous interior with one of Japan's most celebrated gorges, the Kankakei Gorge. The island is also known as the filming location of a popular movie- 'Nijushi No Hitomi' or '24 Eyes'.
Shodoshima serves as one of the venues for the Setouchi Triennale art festival. Some permanent art installations from past festivals can be seen around the island. These include several outdoor installations.
I am so thrilled to be back in Shodoshima. This island is a very special wee place in the world and is fertile ground for creativity, the space to think and develop, and a location of breathtaking natural beauty and the opportunity for immersion within this.
Above are photos of around my home on Shodoshima- talk about living in the lap of the Gods!
I was so taken with this spot and the wonderful people I met when I travelled through in May- you can read about me finding MeiPAM Gallery here.
My next exhibition is on the 10th of October at MeiPAM- WoooOO- that'll be number 6 for the last year! I am excited to share what this amazing opportunity inspires me to create.
↑ is a sneak peek at new artworks in development. Drawing inspiration from my environment and using natural and synthetic materials, I am creating new works that combine pattern, optics, process and formula. Taking my skills with textiles and embroidery back from the 3D to 2D, these drawings create motifs and depth with mark and line.
I have been working away creating crafty goodies for sale and have art/ language evenings for adults and children scheduled from next week where you can come along and relax, chat and make the funky things pictured above :)
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Upcoming is the Olive Festival on October the 18th- food, music, hot air balloons and all sorts of fantastic goodies and shows are planned. I will have a stall where you can come make the photographed crafts with me- if you would like more information about this or the evening classes please feel free to contact mail@meipam.net
If you have not already, have a quiz at my Instagram feed- there are daily bits and pieces that catch my eye on my adventures!
Sayonara- until next time! x
⁀⊙﹏☉⁀ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ❤ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ⁀⊙﹏☉⁀
The Ducati Scrambler 800 and Deluxe Cafe
I couldn't help myself. Well actually, I did, because I am a curious wee creature and was keen to play with the Scrambler after seeing it at the 42nd Tokyo Motorcycle Show in March.
Ducati Scrambler Icon 800
Billed from Ducati as 'much more than a bike, it's a universe of freedom and self expression' it's tooting it's horn for a sensory experience that touches (and holds the hands) of all the bases. A contemporary interpretation of the iconic Ducati model, it's a neat and tidy wee pop coloured package with the essence of what it's all about. Bwwrwwaarrp! Classic Duke sound, wide handlebars and a more refined and slick transmission definitely makes you feel like you're riding like a Boss.
Much more than a tricked out cafe racer there are four different versions with a plethora of different components, clip on's and customisations that can be added gives you a wardrobe to play with. Styled with mixes of the 1970's, street and enduro influences, makes this a funky and sassy automobile. I love the spoke wheels (a little fiddly to clean but soo rad) and padded seat of the Classic, but am rather keen on the Urban Enduro which comes in a cool Wild Green.
Great for riding around town it's a get to, cruise and be comfy and have some serious fun playing around kind of bike. I rode her up and over my favourite Paekakariki Hill (the mini Rimutaka's as it's known).. and then was having so much fun I kept on to Paraparaumu. Which was a long excuse in the sunshine to go back over the Paekak Hill again on the way back!
She's your sassy hot chick friend who is as funky in her Lululemon as Lanvin and is all about what is happening right. now. in. your. grill. Hipster?- a little, but that ain't taking the shine of this ride.
Mucho Gracias to Motormart in Wellington for a superduper experience- get down and grab one in your favourite colour right. now. :P
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Moena Moxham embossed and numbered prints are on display and for sale from the 27th September to 11th of October at Welly's much loved Deluxe Cafe. You can purchase through my online SHOP with postage to anywhere in the world free of charge (sorting those Xmas pressies early aren't you!)-- ooo dat's good!
Opening Night Snaps from In Good Company Exhibition
Aroha and much gratitude to everyone who came along, supported, was involved with and helped along the way. Gosh!- what a wonderful evening of art, music and laughter- trifecta! XO
Sayonara..again! & Miss MV Agusta Brutale 800
It's up up and away again for me to Japan- leaving 4th of September via Melbourne for a new artistic adventure bundle! I am thrilled to be artist in residence at MeiPAM Gallery in Shodoshima for two months and soo excited to see what is in this next bag of tricks.
Thank you very much to all that attended and contributed to my solo show at In Good Company- such a wonderful successful experience to wrap up my investigative art trip around Japan in March to June. As outlined in my objectives before leaving 'ta da!' here's the fruits of my labour- and mighty tasty interesting produce they are! Get thee to the 'In Good Company' page to view.
In Good Company are an incredible creative team offering great opportunities for innovative brains in Welly- pop on down if you haven't already and get immersed in a hive of talent. But before I do just this again in the Asian isles, I needed to take something I had my eye on for a closer inspection...
⁀⊙﹏☉⁀ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ❤ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ⁀⊙﹏☉⁀
MV Agusta Brutale 800
The MV has always intrigued and tickled my fancy- beautiful lines, immaculate finishing and some s.e.r.i.o.u.s power and specs. So not one to sit on my laurels I picked through the snow/ heavy rain and high winds of Wellington winter and placed an educated guess (with fingers xd!) on Saturday the 22nd to ride her with my favourite riders over the Rimutakas to Martinborough for lunch and back. The 'Saturday run' to Welly moto's, and where I cut my teeth learning how to ride as I grew up between the Wairarapa and Wellington.
The Rimutaka Hill road is a motorcyclist's dream- technical, complex and ever changing in conditions. It's appeal is often tinged with tragedy and is classified as one of the most dangerous roads in New Zealand.
An arctic southerly and crisp early morning with clear skies- I'm in my element- layer up the cashmere and get the leathers on.. I was grinning from ear to ear... and still am!
The Brutale is anything but.. more like a cat on a hot tin roof! Super responsive and not engineered for around town it's on the open road and speedy cornering that she really comes into her own. The power band sitting in snugly and with a truly cheek flushing purr at 5-6,000 rpm. Being nimble and light makes manoeuvring easy and fun- although not quite as responsive to weighting the foot pegs as the Triumph. Braking: amazing, controls and positioning: compact, comfortable and easily informative. Show me another sports bike that can make a brown seat look smoking?! Only a couple of (omg- so minimal) things of note- the travel from 1st to 2nd is long, and the surging in lower gears around town- well you get used to it super quick and lets be honest- what are you still doing in town?!
I took the new Ducati Monster for a two day adventure out to the Izu Peninsular in Japan three months ago and weeeelllllll enjoyed it- you can read about the adventure HERE . Infamously comparing this and the Triumph Street III to ladies on a night out- so keeping with tradition: If Miss Agusta joined the team- gawdblimmmmey. She's Italian, all performance with no bluff.. and just as likely to slap and kiss you... ;) x
Y.E.S P.L.E.A.S.E.
A very big 'Thank You' to the wonderful Motorad in Wellington for giving me the opportunity to take her- get down and drool all over asap!
A wee 'Ello' from the Press Department
A little snnnneeeaky peek at the new collection of art I have for display at In Good Company. It has been head down and tail up for this super exciting collection! Opening night is Thursday 13th of Aug at 6pm, upstairs at 166A Cuba St, Wellington- looking forwards to seeing you there ^=^
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I am now on INSTAGRAM if you feel like following my adventures, passions and interests.
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..(o- O) (O -o).. .::'::. - .::'::. - .::'::. ..(o- O) (O -o)..
AND a super cool article about the Rutherford Trust Collection which is currently on show up at Aratoi | Wairarapa Museum of Art and History in Masterton. My Mum has been interviewed about this as she initiated getting the collection made into a book that was distributed to secondary kids pre-internet.
I remember her working on this project and being exposed to phenomenal New Zealand artists as a result. This was when I fell in love with the visual mastery of Tony Fomison, Gordon Walters, Colin McCahon, Rob McLeod (who later taught me and revolutionised how I saw and used colour), Gerda Leenards, Jane Poutney and Gretchen Albrecht's artworks. Combined with instilling in me knowledge of the classics and historical works (the Renaissance, Pre-raphaelite's and the contemporaries), Mum laid the foundations for my passion of visual media- KaaaaBOOOOM in the eyes and mind of an 8 year old!
xx
Artist in Residence: JAPAN -- & -- Moena Moxham solo show: Wellington
I am sooooOOOO extremely excited to announce the following news- I have literally had to sit on my hands and tape my mouth shut.....!
Announcing Moena Moxham solo show and selection as Artist in Residence at MeiPAM Gallery, Shodoshima, Japan. TA DA! We have a new exhibition ladies and gentlemen, and this one is packing some extra fire power!
Showcasing new art created between Japan and New Zealand in Wellington from the 10th- 21st of August. On display upstairs at In Good Company, 166A Cuba St and supported on opening night (Thursday 13th), by the musical maestro DJ Takas and the crafty local beerzies at Parrot Dog.
The proceeds are supporting my return to Shodoshima, Japan in September of this year.
While there I will be conducting workshops, facilitating community events and creating another collection of work that will be shown in the gallery of MeiPAM.
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Plus a wee article in the Wairarapa News about my trip to Japan and work currently on display at Aratoi | Wairarapa Museum of Art and History. Artwork is featured until the first week of August.
If you would like to read it online you can do so here- select the week beginning 8th July.
JAPAN I ❤ YOU
I am sad to leave Japan, I am normally very ready to get moving; it's a very rare thing that I want to stay somewhere indefinitely. I have fulfilled a dream but I could never have imagined the wonderful intricate and subtle entities I would encounter; and the incredible people I have met and friendships I have formed. I have found what I was searching for and I take this with me forever, but there is so much here to explore, and I've only shared a portion of what I did.
Japan, just like Arnie: I. Will. Be. Back...
⁀⊙﹏☉⁀ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ❤ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ⁀⊙﹏☉⁀
奈良 NARA ❤
Japan's first permanent capital, Nara (奈良) is a most rewarding destination. It is the location of no less than eight Unesco World Heritage Sites, beautiful galleries, and a thriving traditional art scene... and generation old calligraphy and Hanko stamp craftsmen (and women) ;)
Running down left is the unwrapping of my Hanko stamp. Made from extremely rare & antique Parinseki stone which is prized for the shots of red colour through it. This red detailing is called Kei-ketsu meaning 'chicken blood'.
萌名 木作夢
Moena Moxham = Crush (as in the manga infatuation), Name, Tree, Make, Dream
Sasakawa Bunrindo- One of the oldest Shodo (Japanese Calligraphy) shops in Japan.
The craftsman who created my stamp used a traditional and very special way of arranging the symbols. Note how the lines cut into the positive red at the top of the signature and 'dribble' out of the bottom of the rectangle. The presentation, experience of creating and final delivery were exceptional- I feel so immensely honoured.
The very special different types of stamp compositions- mine is in the style of the far right
Kei-ketsu - 'Chicken blood' and the type of stone I chose: Parinseki
(̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ❤ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎)
The centrepiece of the Nara temples is the Daibutsu (Great Buddha), which rating wise, rivals Mt Fuji and Kyoto's Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) as Japan's single most impressive sight. In my opinion it is AMAZING (not 100% sure I agree with 'most impressive' though- there are sooo many things- it really depends what category!).
Golden Pavillion- Kyoto
I loved the Golden Pavillion, but the tourist behaviour spoiled the experience. Nara on the other hand has a very very special feeling. The Great Buddha is housed in Tōdai-ji, a soaring temple that presides over Nara-kōen, a park filled with other fascinating sights that lends itself to relaxed strolling amid greenery and tame deer. Yep- you heard right, Bambi and her buddies are just hangin out around town.. honestly, it's the coolest thing.
☸ ☸ ☸
Nara is also compact: it's quite possible to pack the highlights into one full day. Many people visit Nara as a side trip from Kyoto, by comfortable express trains in about half an hour, but with an overnight stay (see Ugaya below- such a special guesthouse) you might spend one or two days around the city centre and others seeing the sights out and about from Nara city (I did Asuka and Osaka easily but chilled for 6 nights comfortably).
I was 11 when I became interested in Buddhism. I would go to Wellington Library and sit for hours reading about the philosophy and studying the artworks and symbology. My childhood next-door neighbours were an Indian family. From when I was tiny I was fascinated with the rituals, smells, food and Hindu deities of my next-door neighbours. On Sundays I would visit my friend and her grandmother would take us into the kitchen and let us sit there and watch as she made Indian delicacies. I would take these to primary school in my lunch alongside super spicy samosa- hence how I was nicknamed 'Hot Lips Hoolihan'- this became even funnier when I got a little older as I thought 'Hawkeye' from M*A*S*H was the beez kneez... ahh blesh!
I came across these stunning carvings of the different hand gestures at the wonderful Nara National Museum which has sculptures and artefacts from years 600. Mind blowing- especially fascinating for me as I have a thing for hands and gestures. The Galleries and Museums in Nara are sensational. For me they are the opitimy of historical arts, crafts and decorative application. The Kokuho-kan Museum has arguable the best examples of Japanese sculpture in the world, and the Todaiji Museum actually blew me away. I permanently looked like a goldfish.
YAKUSHI-JI Temple
Yakushi-ji is GEORGEOUS! It has to be one of my favourite temples as it is super colourful and has exquisite sculptures and artwork on display. It is also very very old- I wish I could show you pics, but well within reason, photos were not allowed (the above details are off the internet). It is a 25 min bus ride away from Nara and is well worth the trip. The grounds are splendid too.
⁀⊙﹏☉⁀ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ❤ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ⁀⊙﹏☉⁀
ASUKA
Asuka is a small region in Nara Prefecture (about 25 kilometers south of Nara City) which had a pivotal role in Japanese history. Lending its name to the Asuka Period (538-710), the Asuka region was the site of Japan's first capitals, from where the early Japanese national character emerged. A few monuments of that period remain, but the area is now mostly fields and rural villages. It is a day trip by train out of Nara and a well worth side trip- get your headphones and a wee snooze on!
The remnants of the Asuka Period, that remain in Asuka today, are mostly limited to stone monuments and archaeological excavations. Burial tombs such as the Ishibutai Tomb or the Takamatsuzuka Tomb are preserved in their original state. They are colossal, eerie and remarkable- we humans are amazing beings.
Artefacts and recreations are on display at museums like the Asuka Museum or the Complex of Manyo Culture (this is VERY GOOD and had an entire display on the beauty of poetry and a theatre puppet performance. I loved the life size sculpture displays of ancient Japan and incredible scale model architectural models with HOLOGRAPHIC videos onto them!!! Woooo. The glass flowers were inlaid in the passageway ceiling- >=< ) . Scattered among the region's villages and fields are also some of Japan's oldest temples and fantastic rock formations and exceptionally ancient relics- like masssssive turtle years (oh and a huge rock that looks like a turtle too hehe).
⁀⊙﹏☉⁀ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ❤ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ⁀⊙﹏☉⁀
OSAKA
I have a thing for jellyfish... and a low tolerance for zoo's and extreme heat, being a snow bunny and all.... so Osaka, honey, you fitted the bill that day.
Osaka Aquarium
But get THIS- you can PAT THE STING RAY AND TIGER SHARKS. YEP... I hear you squeal- I was on it like white on rice baby.
P.s- those jellyfish I kept wondering about when I went swimming- yes, HIGHLY poisonous and with a very bad sting- god knows how I slipped around that one- and thank goodness my instincts were right when they thought the brighter the colour- the more venomous. Someone was helping me dodge raindrops. For the record: they are in the waters around Naoshima ;)
My little (Totoro) cotton socks got blessed on the mooch back to Osaka station with a window display by Tokyo artist Tomoko Konoike, representing the natural flora and fauna of japan on Japanese materials and leather. Hellz bellz mega-babein.
If you want to be challenged, engaged, inspired, plunged in, learn how to tune out, find your spirit, immerse yourself in nature, relax, crank up, become wise, remember to play and be silly... then Japan is the place for you. If you come with an open mind and want to discard your preconceptions, you will be rewarded in every way you can imagine.
JAPAN I ❤ YOU
⁀⊙﹏☉⁀ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ❤ (̃⊙.o ⊙.◎) ⁀⊙﹏☉⁀
Himeji, Mt Shosha, Aminohashidate... & a FARKIN rad Photographer by the name of SEAN AICKIN
Move over Kyoto and Osaka, this blog is dedicated to the bright stars of the central and lower third of Honshu.... and one burning bright with the flash ON in Wellington, NZ.
For a map of my travels click HERE. A fraction is taged, but it's still an interesting geez- growing up with a Da who has instilled in me the beauty, functionality and wonder of maps- it's nice to know where you have been and where you are going- better get on and tag past the moon then too hehe
¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º° ≥^.^≤ °º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸
HIMEJI CASTLE & Mt SHOSHA- 円教寺, Engyōji Temples
Himeji Castle is a UNESCO World heritage site and has only just reopened on the 27th of March 2015 after extensive reconstruction. What was especially remarkable about this is that this was done using completely traditional methods. It is the largest castle in Japan and is featured in many films and movies. It is truly spectacular to visit and I was fascinated by the displays and information regarding the constructions and conservation- there are even videos you can watch on your iPhone when you go past certain media sites!
Often in Japan you find old sites or building have 'burnt' down and been reconstructed. The Japanese are meticulous in their assemblies and methodology, and in some ways this re-birth fits the Japanese mentality perfectly. This is the Land of reinvention yet protection. Like with ancient artefacts- associations, names and ideas are added or carefully assigned after long consideration and research- makes me giggle a bit if we have that toothpick as a priceless hairpin though...
The castle is surrounded by stunning Japanese Gardens (rebuild 1992) where you can take tea and sweets in a traditional Japanese tea house without feeling like you are fighting with Time and the masses.
Making Himeji Castle Anko (red bean paste) sweets. Check out this machine! Recipe for paste is HERE. You can sandwich between pikelets for a tasty Eastern twist ;)
Himeji City Museum of Art- currently superb Marc Chagall
Himeji as a city is eaaaasy going, has fantastic food and great creative sites to see in the city and surrounding area. I went up into the surrounding hills for a day to feed my love for getting out of the hustle and bustle and had a stunning experience at the Engyoji Temples where you can wander around the over 1000 year old places of worship with the birds, the talking trees and the stones that listen.
Amazing examples of Oshi-e or Kurumie (padded and layered pictures)
At the bottom of the ropeway at Mt Shosha is an INCREDIBLE (can I highlight this even further?!) museum called 'Shosha-no-sato Art and Craft Center' at the foot of the mountain. You will find artwork done by Kosho Shimizu who was born in Himeji and became the chief priest at the Todaiji Temple in Nara. His work is diverse, expressive, colourful and across many mediums (ceramic, paint, embossings and calligraphy- GO DUDE- & he had a wicked sense of humour).
You can also observe or participate in making traditional Himeji crafts such as leather products, spinning tops, masks, Kurumie and Himeyama dolls.
Kosho Shimizu
¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º° ≥^.^≤ °º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸
AMINOHASHIDATE - Singing Sands Beach
Like a little Venice and Noosa wrapped into one with Oysters the specialty (BIG ones- like the SIZE OF MY FIST AND CUT INTO 5!!) and Fugu, the super poisonous Japanese puffer fish.
The water was warm, the sun hot, the sand sings(!), the food tasty and the vibe super chill- I could live here easily. You get a special travel ticket when you change onto the last train to get here that gives you free access around the area for two or so days too- boom! But trust me, as soon as you step off the train, it just smells and feels right- you are not going to be a rushin' :)
(⊙.⊙(☉_☉)⊙.⊙) - ⊙ ☉ ☉ ⊙ - (⊙.⊙(☉_☉)⊙.⊙)
One of my closest buddies, and phenomenal photographer Sean Aickin has just got his website up and for the world to see! FIND HIM...and buy him a beer when you do ;) x
His BLOG is here too (which for the record is seanaikinsux - he don't - he's megga un-sux-ing lol)
モンスター!! : MONSTAaa's in Shodoshima... & Moxham at Aratoi!
TRAVEL: Different Strokes for Different Folks- but here's how I paint my adventures. Number 1 piece of advice: Travel sloooooowwww. People ask how I get into doing the crazy cool things I see and am involved in and I reckon it's because I travel SLOW. I initially do two nights usually when I get somewhere, and I often use one spot as a base and then travel from there. I go back roads, by instinct and am not afraid to decline an option and move onto the next if it doesn't feel right. Go down alleys and get out of the 'hub'; it's a tourist trap and it's going to cost like one too.
I read the map- keep it in the back of the brain until I need it, then go where feels best... and don't pull on it until I REALLY need it. I get 'lost' all the time and love it; 'lost' is someone else's home. Be nosey- investigate; enter with a smile, apologise and withdraw politely if the line has been overstepped. Talk to people. Listen to others stories but make your own on your own terms. Go for it like you die tomorrow but try spend like you live to 120. No-one has your personal energy or way that you will deal with a situation- trust in this, it will be why your experience can and will NEVER mirror someone else's. Fuck the guidebook- don't worry about missing the bus... actually I'm encouraging you TO miss the bus.
Worry about what YOU are doing and not others opinion of it. Buy cosmetics in squeegee bottles/ sachets (Thank you Aesop you little beauty), Get rid of anything that comes under a header of 'rigid'- that includes ideas. Pack: take out 2/3's (think you can't live off this?!) and wish 1 month later you took 1/2 less again, wear comfortable shoes and laugh. For god sakes don't forget the last one- ever.
P.S: Check out how big the collections have grown on this post!
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Moena Moxham Art is on display and for sale at the world class ARATOI Gallery Wairarapa- YEEoow!! Bronze, glass, embossings and prints are all available to view and purchase.
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SHODOSHIMA - Bangin Art and Island Life = Purrfect
Moving on from Naoshima Islands back across to Shodoshima Island in the direction of Hijime I came across THE COOLEST collection of galleries in Tonosho, Shodo-Island. MeiPAM have four locations around the village for you to find and explore... and one is a museum dedicated completely to MOSTERS! (EEeeeeeEEEIIIIIieieiei!!-- O.M.G- soo bloody cool!)
My family collected Japanese antiques, artefacts and especially hanko stamps and Netsuke 根付 which are the small sculptures that hang with the Inrō 印籠 (which is a small multi-layered lacquered box) off the kimono. The are fantastically intricate, made and carved out of the most beautiful materials, and often depicted nature, animals or stories and deities.
These little sculptures are the precursors to the modern danglies we see hanging off cellphones and bags everywhere :)
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Wandering around the windy streets takes you to the four locales- you have a swipe card to enter and take your time through the exhibits. This relaxed atmosphere really adds to the whole experience. I loved chilling at the one below watching the video in the rocking chair ^=^
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There is lots to do in Shodoshima, The Olive Park and Marukin Soy Sauce Museum were superb, the Onsen at the Oliven a winner overlooking the islands and beaches from the hills- the only challenge at the moment if you are not bilingual is that everything is in Japanese. SO not quite as easy to navigate as the other islands which have had more time and money invested into their infrastructure. This is changing though- I stayed with Mitsu and her boys, whose new contract is to implement just this thing... and the friendliness, relaxed atmosphere and great things to do by far outweigh this blip.
The Setouchi Art Festival (Trienniale) coming in 2016 covers all the islands in this area and from what I have seen will be a must do! This coming theme is INDIA! WOOP!
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& to knock it off, a wee bit o' Moena Moxham Poetry....
EXEMPLARY: Teshima, Inujima, Naoshima and orbit changing art
The islands of Teshima, Inujima and Naoshima have changed my orbit. It's an experience that in no ways can be given justice in any other expression than just being here. Get on a plane and come; if it's the only thing you do; the only 'galleries' you ever visit.. do these- especially Teshima Art Museum.
For 16 years I have been searching for the pieces I have found here.
The photos below are such a fraction of the happenings- the feeling, the presence and the pace can't be captured and shared, but I can enthusiastically encourage you to come by sharing some of the background on these works by clicking the pictures. Naoshima was my base and then I travelled around from there. Inujima is the lesser known of the islands, but I implore you to strike your own path and make the trip ;)
Teshima Art Museum is the creative visions of Artist Rei Naito and architect Ryue Nishizawa and has slotted in by far clearing the line as my ultimo favourite artwork and masterpiece. NUMBER 1. It is the most exquisite execution of Art...
"Les Archives du Cœur", by Christian Boltanski needs special mention as well. 'The Heart Room' is an installation of a collection of heartbeats. Boltanski has collected these from around the world. You can even add your own to the artwork. Incredibly moving, and sensationally evocative, it is situated in the most idilic of environments in a picture perfect beach and bay.
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NAOSHIMA ISLAND
Below: Yayoi Kusama's infamous spotted pumpkins
Chichu Art Museum.. and below
There is a wonderful page about Lee Ufan and his work at the Artsy page HERE
Bruce Nauman, '100 Live and Die', 1984- Benesse House, Naoshima
Below: I♥湯 - Naoshima Bath, ohhh soooo gooood!
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INUJIMA
Inujima Seirensho Art Museum is a museum that preserves and reuses the remains of a copper refinery on the island. Based on the concept of using the existing to create the yet-to-be, the project brings together architecture by Hiroshi Sambuichi, which makes use of the existing smokestacks and karami bricks from the refinery and uses solar, geothermal, and other natural energies to reduce the burden on the environment, and art by Yukinori Yanagi, which uses Yukio Mishima, who sounded warnings over aspects of Japan's modernization, as a motif. The building also employs a sophisticated water purification system that makes use of the power of plants. The project truly embraces the concept of a recycling-based society as a model for a new type of regional revitalization through industrial heritage, architecture, art, and the environment.
In combination with this are other installations and Art House projects around the island.
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Check out these incredible stories (below) from other adventurous souls. A phenomenal Indian Babette surfer changing the way women are doing things in India. Creativity and how it all works though the eyes of creative people themselves, a motorcyclist and adventurer on a path to discover the new, unusual and challenging with soul and class, and just some hilarious and well funny outrageousness from the boys who brought us This Is The End and Pineapple Express..
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TOKYO ROADTRIP! Rental819, Amagiso Ryokan and the Izu Skyline- KaapOOW!
An adventure of a lifetime... (ok, until next week)! Two days, one hot ass Ducati Monster 698, gung-ho attitude & experience and a road (and some off road lol). Ohh yeeeeeeaaaahh baby! Riding a motorbike around Japan was a driving force of me getting onto bikes in the first place, so this achievement has left me grinning like a little fluffy furball.
Starting off with the best motorbike rental outlet in JAPAN- with over 100 shops, and English speaking staff, I rated them the best equipped and well suited to me as an English speaking foreigner wanting a two wheeled adventure. With super slick, new, high performance machines, competitive pricing and comprehensive insurance, lets have a big drum roll for the superstars at RENTAL819!!
My route- Day one: straight out west to Fuji and then down to the Amagiso Onsen nestled right under a corkscrew highway
Day two: down along the coast to Shimoda, up- to Mount Omuro, along the famous Izu & Hakone Skyline roads and then North and back to Tokyo + amazing stops along the way
HANDS DOWN SUPERB TO DEAL WITH. Special mention going out to Adrian, Yosuke & Kohsuke at Ikebukuro and the mechanic from Hatogaya who setup the GPS and Ducati :) They helped me put together a route on Garmin navigation, sort out the highway toll charges, get kitted out in spunky Dianese moto-gear, book a Ryokan and Onsen AND get a brand new 2015 Ducati Monster 698.
I tossed up between the new Yamaha MT-09 and the new Ducati's, but settled on the Duke for a few reasons. Experience had taught me about getting into all sorts of little situations can be more cooly navigated when you are not having to fight your machine. On motorbike trips there are always adventures inside the adventure!! Gravelly side roads, multiple short notice u-turns, possible inclement weather, steep inclines and the fact that I was doing this solo, were all thoughts that helped me on my decision. Plus I was keen to try out the new Ducati's engineering.
Best place in the world to stop on a moto-afternoon tea
Weather in April in Tokyo is a mixed bag. One day sunny and 23 deg, the next, 3 and snowing! I checked to see when the full moon was (I bet $$ on this trick and always book my snow or fishing adventures around this date as it brings clear skys and reliably settled weather) but alas it was a new moon. SO I stuck my finger in the air, waved it around a bit, missed the weekend and landed on the 23rd/ 24th.... and ca-boOOM- I was blessed with THE BEST you could get. Warm, sunny and ab-so-lutely-bloody-purrrrfect.
Triumph v Ducati
Miss Piggy, as I affectionately nicknamed her was one fun ride- as long as you kept moving! The Monster is nimble, light, grunty, LOUD (Oh this was SOOO FUN in quiet Japan), looks super sexy and had a never ending petrol tank. Interesting notes: down changing (esp 1st) was like slamming a hammer, no matter how sleekly you attempt and the HEAT from the engine was UNBELIEVABLE. I swear to God, I had to check multiple times my jeans hadn't burnt right off- to the point on the return trip, where I had entered this crazy 16km long, winding underground tunnel beneath Tokyo at 40 deg air temp, that I couldn't bear idling in the traffic jam so resorted to tearing up the left (never a good option) side emergency lane (under a meter wide) to get out of the damn thing. I found out later the Pannigale is even hotter?!- their slogan should be "Ducati- just keep 'em moving"...
If the bikes were girls on a night out- the Triumph would be a sleek, well groomed, sassy lady oozing sex appeal on just the right notes, where as the Ducati would be leopard print naughty fun, with a skirt just a little too short, a husky smokers voice, whisky on the rocks and the lady with the tricks at 4am. Both a bit of awesome; dynamo team- but for me TRIUMPH all the way.
Arriving in the dark after a couple of hours of night switchback corners- which was ridiculously good, boot scraping fun to the most beautiful traditional Japanese hotel; Amagiso Ryokan. Three levels high, it snuggly wound it's way down the valley to a spectacular waterfall and hot springs.
Riding in Japan is magnificent. The road charges are expensive, and I advise you carry lots of change in a handy to access pocket- because your going to need it at the toll routes. Most windy runs have mirrors on the corners, which is pretty neat. The highways are superb, well policed and there are speed cameras (that shoot from the front... ^=^ ......)... but with your wits about you and good decision making, you can have a blast!
I pulled on all my skills and resources, absolutely can't even put in words how much fun I had, and HIGHLY recommend you come and play RIGHT HERE. ^=^
𝒞𝓊𝓇𝓇𝑒𝓃𝓉𝓁𝓎 𝓁𝑜𝒸𝒶𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝒾𝓃:
𝓙𝓪𝓹𝓪𝓷 | 2014
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