IHI

by Philip Kelly

The Kauri Project Poster Series (2014)
archival print, edition of 50
420 x 594 mm
unframed - $230
framed with white wooden frame - $420

 

Ihi means power or life-force. When seeing large kauri the onlooker is filled with the feeling of wehi (awe). This image was taken at home in Titirangi in early 2013 - the fallen leaves of a large living tree under stress after the long dry summer. The image implies an environment under pressure, yet depicts part of the natural process of a living kauri. The hand drawn type echoes stands of young kauri in the forests of Waitakere. This lettering, in combination with the image, seeks to communicate the value of kauri as a natural taonga requiring the greatest care and protection. 

Based in Titirangi, Auckland, Philip Kelly works in visual communications. His 30-year career encompasses graphic design, art direction, typography, and photography, alongside sporadic exhibiting of his own artwork. In 2013 Philip co-curated and designed exhibition We Will Work With You: Wellington Media Collective 1978 - 1998 with Chris McBride, for The Adam Art Gallery, Wellington.

The Kauri Project poster series: Contemporary artists and designers Charlotte Graham, Philip Kelly, Tessa Laird, Natalie Robertson and Haruhiko Sameshima have been commissioned to produce new works addressing the social, cultural and historical value of the kauri tree, one of our most beloved native species, in the face of the threat posed by kauri dieback disease.