Ko au ko koe- I am you Already Ancient Aotearoa

Ko au ko koe (ko koe ko au) is a way of saying that we are as one.

This piece shows a mirror image of two figures who appear to be sitting, grooming themselves. Water becomes the acting force that both cleanses and connects them.

The image reflects an idea that our taking care of ourselves is the beginning of a better world. This statement is equally true that caring and reciprocity are integral for us to feel loved and supported enough to care about ourselves. This image was inspired by stories such as Hinemoa and Tūtānekai, Tinirau and Hine-te-iwaiwa and other stories where lovers met in bathing pools. The Māori word for water is wai (as is the word for who). So we begin to develop a sense that when we look into the waters of identity and see someone else and we see ourselves in that other, we find aroha. Aroha then becomes an awareness of our interconnection through the source.

Fashioned from blue and black Aotea of strong, powerful colour. ...