Artwork Information

The title of this painting, together with the almost mythical landscape, suggests a threatening narrative. The central figure adorned with a heru (comb) and gripping a toki (axe) is seemingly intent on one thing. Yet, is the figure fighting against the destruction of the land or does the painting depict resistance, or an altercation with those responsible for the felling of forests? (Te Moananui a Kiwa, 2005)