Te Whenua

This is the story behind one of my recent commissions, a unique Toki carved for an exceptionally talented artist. This piece holds a special significance, as it was created for Sean Fietje a painter known for his ultra-realistic landscapes, often depicting the stunning scenery of New Zealand’s South Island.

I had the opportunity to personally deliver the Toki to Sean and was thrilled to receive a tour of his workshop and art studio. Sean shared wonderful insights into the intricate processes and challenges of his art, enriching my understanding of his creative journey. You can see him below sitting next to some of his work in progress that he is rightly very proud of. He told me that these paintings tak between 200 and 300 hours, that is months of full time work! You can see more of his work on his website www.seanfietje.com.

This Toki is crafted from Hapopo Pounamu, sourced from the rugged terrain of South Westland. The stone itself is a beautiful Nephrite Pounamu, displaying a mesmerizing array of colors that perfectly capture the essence of the South Island’s landscapes. The hues range from deep, earthy browns and almost black tones to rich forest greens, transitioning into pale, creamy greens with a subtle hint of blue. These shades are reminiscent of the rolling plains, craggy bluffs, and shingly mountains that are a hallmark of Aotearoa’s South Island, Te Wai Pounamu.

I have named this Toki “Te Whenua,” which means “The Land” in Māori. This name was chosen to emphasize the deep connection between the piece and the land from which the Pounamu was sourced. “Te Whenua” represents the earth’s foundational role in our lives, providing sustenance, beauty, and inspiration. The name also pays homage to the landscapes that the commissioned artist so vividly captures in his work.

In creating this piece, I aimed to reflect the natural beauty and intricate details that Sean brings to life in his paintings. The Toki’s coloration and texture mirror the diverse and dynamic environment of the South Island, offering a tangible connection to the land that inspires both of our crafts. The dark and light tones within the Pounamu echo the contrasts found in nature, from the dense forests to the open, expansive plains.

This commission was a unique opportunity to blend two art forms—carving and painting—each telling a story of New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes. It was an honor to create a piece that not only complements the artist’s work but also stands as a tribute to the land we both hold dear. The Toki, with its rich palette and natural elegance, serves as a symbol of the connection between our artistic expressions and the timeless beauty of Te Wai Pounamu.

Feel free to reach out for custom commissions or to learn more about the significance of Pounamu carving.

Check out Sean on his social media accounts too.

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/sean.fietje.artist/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/seanfietjeartist

Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO2SOzJLki9NUTipjphI6Hw