Eye of the Kiwi by SWEATS
SWEATS is the studio of multidisciplinary artist, Pierre Hadlow. Bold and primal, SWEATS’ art consists principally of expressionistic figures and objects. Beginning as abstraction, his portraits are brought to life through eyes, lips and teeth, which emerge from vibrant colours that explode the senses.
Describe the inspiration behind your kiwi.
Conservation takes awareness and action, EYE OF THE KIWI portrays the good fight of conservation. On one side of this sculpture, the eye speech bubble represents the kōrero of kiwi conservation, seeing, hearing and understanding. The other side, the cradled wing hands, represents the mahi of kiwi conservation, the doing, giving the plan flight. And of course if you’re heading out to bring awareness to this beautiful native bird of Aotearoa, why not do it in style rocking boots n bling!
Why did you say 'yes' to joining the Kiwi Art Trail?
I think it’s such a great idea bringing art and conservation awareness together. Art in public spaces is accessible to a wide audience and creating a trail is a fun way to bring together a lot of different artists and styles into Tāmaki Makaurau.
What do you like about kiwi and kiwi conservation? Why is the kiwi important to you?
It’s a symbol for our country, an icon that unifies us, we identify and call ourselves Kiwis! The Kiwi is native to Aotearoa which is something unique to us, a really special creature and something to celebrate.
Have you ever seen a kiwi?
Yes, I have seen the Kiwi lots in our zoos, the Auckland Zoo enclosure is one of my daughters faves, fingers crossed we see one in the wild one day.
Find out more about Eye of the Kiwi here.
