In the Presence of Humanity 2025

In a rapidly shifting world, New Zealand’s diverse communities

are navigating a range of urgent social, economic, and cultural challenges. rising costs of living, a persistent housing crisis, growing mental health concerns, and the pursuit of equity for māori communities are just some of the issues shaping our collective experience. it is against this backdrop that in the presence of humanity, a series of acrylic-on-canvas portraits created in 2024, seeks to capture the heartbeat of modern Auckland—reflecting not only our struggles but also our resilience and unity.

This body of work brings together men and women from twenty to seventy years of age, hailing from Pakeha, Māori, South African, Indian, Filipino, Italian, and American backgrounds. Each portrait offers more than a likeness; it stands as a visual conversation with its subject —an invitation for viewers to contemplate the real, lived stories that define our multicultural tapestry. By painting each individual with honesty and empathy, the series underscores both our differences and the shared humanity that binds us, reminding us that in the face of economic hardships, housing challenges, and social inequities, there remains a powerful sense of hope, identity, and connection.

Through fluid brushstrokes and a nuanced colour palette, these portraits embrace the tension of our times. the raw texture of acrylic paint echoes the complexities of life in Aotearoa today—where headlines of inflation, overburdened healthcare systems, and inequitable governance converge with everyday aspirations for belonging and stability. Yet amid these pressures, the sitters’ faces emerge with warmth, humour, dignity, and quiet determination, reflecting the tenacity and heart of Auckland’s communities.

In the presence of humanity aims to bridge the personal and the political, prompting visitors to acknowledge the challenges before us while also celebrating the vibrancy of our diverse society. By presenting these portraits together, the exhibition becomes a meeting ground for conversation, a space where individuals from all walks of life can encounter one another’s stories, and in doing so, discover shared resilience.

I hope that by displaying these works, I may open a window into the real and urgent issues affecting New Zealanders, while also revealing the beauty and complexity in each face. It is my aspiration that In the Presence of Humanity invites every viewer to reflect on their own place in this mosaic, nurturing deeper empathy, dialogue, and collective action—one portrait at a time.