Ohi'a 'ai - Mountain Apple (Syzygium malaccense)
A lot of different things inspired me to create this piece. I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by amazing female role models most of my life. My Mother, Sister, Grandmothers, teachers, managers and friends have all helped shape me into the man I am today. In a way this is a tiny thank you to women.
Thank you!
The photographs used to create this piece were shot May-July 2019 to capture the full life cycle of the Mountain Apples from empty branches, to buds growing into glorious flowers, then gradually evolving into the final apples. Sharing strong parallels to the human life cycle.
Approximately 160-175 high resolution photos were digitally puzzled together over about a month to create the final image. The process is very time consuming, but rewarding. Often meditative. While working I reflected on many thoughts and feelings this piece brought up in me. Hopefully some can be seen and felt, but instead of putting my thoughts and ideas in your head I invite you to see, explore, think, feel and discover for yourself.
My work is best viewed in person, or on a large screen. The original piece is 550x350 inches, or roughly 45x30 feet, containing an incredible amount of detail. When seen on a large scale up close it brings the viewer into a world beyond what you can see with the naked eye. I would love an opportunity to cover an entire building in flowers, but am initially looking to start with a slightly scaled down (indoor wall friendly) gallery show with pieces around 80x60 inches.
Below are some examples of detail in larger scale.
