In Dialogue with Papatūānuku - Birgit Moffatt This new Body of Work is a sensory exploration and discovery of te taiao, the natural world, that leads to a deeper understanding and re-valuation of my relationship with te ngahere, the native bush. I am exploring the potential of natural materials I am gathering on my daily walks through the bush, at the footsteps of the Tararua ranges. I often come home with my pockets and hands full of precious taonga from Papatūānuku such as bark, sticks, vines and seed pods. In my studio I am transforming my findings intuitively into art works that are esthetically appealing and highlighting their rich textures and organic forms by stitching, weaving, hand manipulation and natural dyeing. My intention is to create work using those materials without diminishing their wairua and original appearance. Working in this way nurtures my creativity and connects me deeper with the ngahere, physically and spiritually. ‘ I always feel safe in the woods, like someone is laying a protecting cloak of green around my shoulders every time I am entering the bush.’ This exhibitiion is o at 'from out of the blue studio gallery' at 18 Halse Place, Opunake. 4616. Open Thursdays to Mondays 1 - 5 pm. or by appointment. Phone. 021 407 424.