I regard the ocean as a fluid friend that helps me to traverse relationships and a sense of self. As a keen long-board surfer, riding waves on the sea is not only revitalising and inspirational, it is creative and very much in the moment. Over the last few years I have also come to know the sea as a charismatic entity. Hyper sensitive, the sea’s moods can swiftly swing in any direction if conditions shift.

For instance, when big swells roll in whipped up by sudden southerlies, the ocean’s clean rhythmic body can quickly contort into a blustering rage. It was during the height of the cyclone that I saw the ocean become absolutely boundless. ‘Cyclone Sees’ is my reaction to how Cyclone Gabrielle transformed our waters into a fluid feast of heavy mud, raw energy, surreal sights, sounds and celestial colours at speed.

This work is all about capturing the feeling of awe and magnanimity while watching the sea become a creature unleashed, hurtling itself all over the banks of our Wairoa town. Also, it has mostly been because of my moments in the sea, that I have begun to recognise that destruction is really the basis of existence and that as humans we are always learning this.This is why I believe that when Cyclone Gabrielle dropped in to visit, we were presented with a raft of necessary life lessons. Although these were lessons that we were undeniably unprepared for, in hindsight they have ultimately caused vital change. In short, this series of seascapes is not about news-worthy chaotic fall out, but my first-hand impressions of an awe inspiring ocean doing its thing.