Tanya's and Tess's Fix

My support went to The Conservative Party

2012-01-18T19:35:00.001-08:00

And didn't they do well, for a party that came from nowhere; well done Colin Craig and co!!
I have no faith in LabourLite aka National and een less faith in dorky Act and co. It just shows you that a
party can come from nowhere and do well, even if they didn't quitte make it...next time!

I'm also glad that Winston made it back. It's about time we had a robust opposition and a politician who says exactly what he thinks!!! Well done to Winny, he he, well deserved. JK and co are so not listening to the people as they get ready to hock off the family silver....!!!! Go Winston, and I'm glad I gave my two ticks to the true blues!!

2012-01-11T20:37:00.000-08:00

just reading in the Herald today about a gang of kids, some as young as six, running amok in Featherston through the day and night, vandalising the town and scaring old folk. FFS. Is this for real? Even worse, the police cannot seem to contain them and the local authorities report that they are taking a 'holistic approach'.

And herein lies part of the problem. What kind of a namby pamby new-agey response is that? No wonder this country is fast going down the gurgler. Yes, it's partly the parents fault, but don't blame on the problem on the lack of clean sheets or the lack of three solid meals a day. Blame the gangs of kids also.

A child at the age of six/gangs of kids, runnong amok in NZ. Sends shivers down my spine at how spineless, hand-wringing and weak the so-called authorities in this country are. No wonder teachers face a hail of abuse in the classroom every day, when we have mere innocents, in our towns, our streets, wrecking havoc on the elderly, asking for money, pilfering, etc. Is this why thousands of New Zealand soldiers died in the two world wars? I sincerely hope not. What a sad, and sadistic little isle we seem to have become, when it is the children who rule the roost and are allowed to go, and stay, feral. And what a dire reflection on what was once a great, God-fearing nation. Who would have thought?

Election and reflection.

2011-10-30T01:13:00.000-07:00

RWC over and the election now in full swing. Labour has gone low-profile it seems and Key is still Prince Charming. Billboards everywhere and the debates getting off the ground. MMP may stay or go (I hope it goes, but this looks increasingly unlikely!), and Key will jockey back into power at a relaxed canter, yawn, yawn already. Personally, I don't get why the guy is so popular, but the media have made him into a celeb, that's part of it. He laps it up though, cringe at that hokey handshake. Stars eh.
Roll on , roll on roll on. 2014. Please. Just too boring this year. The Greens are shining, original, good billboards!

I'll never vote Brash

2011-09-30T14:53:00.000-07:00

With Brash's latest outburst, that's the deathknell for me on Act. This guy just seems to put his foot in it, he's made for gaffes. Dopey, dopey, dopey. Is there any hope left? Politics 101, never ever say what you realliy think! This election is going to be a bore, a foregone conlusion and even a bit of a yawn, detainately overshadowed by the RWC, no matter what the outcome, and a PM popular to boot, entrenched.
Yawn. Even the billboards are dull so far, especially from the Nats. Can't they be more imaginative?
2014 will be more exciting, what with the economic storm clouds sill looming...! At at least we have the rugby to sidetrack us froml the more imortant issues...maybe Don was just trying to install some excitement into the mix? Well, he did, for five minutes, anyway.

When does the electioneering start?

2011-08-19T16:15:00.000-07:00

The Rugby World Cup obviously takes precedence this year over that other well-loved Kiwi-event of old, the general election. You'd hardly think there was going to be one on this year; there is no colour abound so far. When do the electorate MPs get out into their communities to start meeting their potential voters? When does the balloon-giving and hand-shaking start? I'm looking forward to the TV debates, but I don't agree with Key and Goff's co-joint decision not to be involved in the wider party debates. This is a cynical move in my view, especially on the part of Key. A measure of complacency and arrogance even, Holier than Thau.
Rather, audiences should be given the chance to see all the leaders in debate mode, not just the waiters-in-the-wings. A chance to measure the answers, to ask the qustions, to weigh up the options. Politics has been turned into media-sound bites these days, a sign of the times, I guess.

Bring back the days of the old community-hall meetings, the cake-stalls etc, the foot-soldiers going from house to house, meeting their constituents face to face. The days when the PM was not made into a major celebrity (talking Key here more than anyone else), the days when NZ politics had a gritty reality, Kiwi reality about it. Now it all seems so stage-managed and distant, not to mention media-run and overly glossed-up. Bring back the right stuff.

As for the RWC, this will be an interesting diversion. Let the games begin, but I for one, am looking forward to the November scramble for power far more!

Why I've stopped reading the papers

2011-07-15T16:36:00.000-07:00

I have stopped reading the daily papers/watching the news etc because all the rotten, violent news it's jam-packed with make me feel ashamed to be a Kiwi. For example; a nine year old girl attacked by a group of drunken men, a two year old girl given a hell life and then finally killed by her own mother (kicked around like a soccer ball), yet another murder case going through the courts (with the victim's body dismembered and found in plastic containers in the Waitakeres)....not to mention the abused dog (ears-cut off), the kitten that was stomped to death in front of a child.....and we're meant to be civilised. Yeah right. Shame. Absolute, mind-boggling shame.

No more daily news for me, I'm fed up with it. The animal kingdom puts our society to shame. Reading the news of violent, dark little NZ is like watching a horror movie coming to life. Just how and when did we get to such undiluted depravity? So much for clean, green, safe and desirable NZ. When you look beneath the gloss....and you don't have to look far...there's a far darker, uglier tale to be told. How sad that all of it is truth rather than ficiton. More than just cringe-factor. I for one am so sick of the let's have another report phase...yeah right. Talk about brushed under the carpet and swept out of mindsight.

Poor old negleglected blog

2011-07-01T05:09:00.000-07:00

Haven't been here for weeks. Much has happened. The Hone show. The Macsynka King book. Key in India. oh dear....what have I missed. Lots, apparently. I don't agree with Macsina King publishing a book either, just in bad taste, that's all. She had the chance to tell her story ages ago, so why now? And is it the truth? Trouble is, we'll acutally never know for sure. Only she knows and he knows.

And could there be any sadder, heart-wrenching tale? What is the point now, Is it the ultimate in bad taste?

Not needed, any more flipping Ministries

2011-05-21T05:48:00.000-07:00

Nuff said. Enough control, enough beauracracy, enough. We don't need a Children's Ministry, and it won't make a blind bit of difference, just as the unmandated anti smacking law didn't, hasn't, and never ever will.

Let parents parent their kids, as the majority do, and do well. Cause we all keep getting blamed for the mongrel minority, as is the way of the left. Control freakery gone mad.

Thank goodness National is in power. All is not lost...and with such nonsense from L, National could slam dunk this election. Definately the more viable and sensible option. No wonder the polls are glowing blue...

Snap election? Hope so!

2011-05-16T03:38:00.000-07:00

I for one really hope for a snap election. Where has the campaigning been this year? There has been lots of political storms going on, but not much in the way of electoral excitement. Not a balloon nor a hoarding to be seen. Have I been missing something?

I long for a snap election, just for something different! Here's wishing. And good luck to Brash. Most refreshing indeed. Just what Act need. I'm looking forward to the colour, hoopla and fun that every election brings. Bring it on!

New job, less time to blog...

2011-05-16T03:34:00.000-07:00

Yay. Have managed to land a job at last. Will find it harder to post here, but will still blog now and then, as it's something I enjoy. Will be working in the insurance industry, due to the two Christchurch earthquakes. And I'll be helping people who've suffered through such devastation. This will be a good learning curve for me as well, something different from what I'm expert in, but not too different.

It's nice to get back to full time paid work. A new door has opened; new company, new faces, and the fun of a new and unusual challenge. Looking forward to it, though will be quite an adjustment, no more sleeping in...

Less of the night owl me. Yeah, right! There just arn't enough hours in the day...!

Cheers to Wills and Catherine!

2011-04-29T04:57:00.000-07:00

I thoroughly enjoyed watching the televised spetacle, and didn't it all go off without a hitch? She looked amazing, relaxed and enjoying herself, and her dress was beautiful. Somewhat understated, yet beautiful and elegant. Prince William, cool, calm and collected, and obviously enjoying it all. (I didn't saw a glimpse of the NZ PM). Her Majesty looked marvellous in her canary yellow. What well behaved Royal horses as well. They are truly bomb-proof! The ceremony itself was awesome, and I loved watching the pomp and ceremony of it all. The crowds too, how excited and proud. The only sad part being, of course, that the wonderful Princess Diana could not be there to share in her son's special day. I'm sure she would have been completely over the moon, for both of them. Tears.

Good on the Royal couple, an event worth waiting for. And best of luck to them for the future. Bottoms up. A very cool Royal do. Absolutely stirling!

Jumping through hoops for the sake of a job...

2011-04-28T08:13:00.000-07:00

I haven't had to seriously job-hunt for some time, and what a demoralising experience it is. I can't believe what people are put through, these days. From on-line psych tests, to being hot-seat interviewed by teams of people, with every little answer jotted down, by a supposed group of experts. You'd think one was applying to be the big cheese or something, rather than just another cog in the machine, if you get my drift.

In the field I am looking in, I have over twelve years experience, from almost every possible angle. And it's still recent and relevant. I have excellent references, including verbal and written. I know I can do the job, I am both capable and careful. I'm good both on the phone, and face to face with clients. I do my best to go the extra mile. To go above and beyond. I have worked both sole charge and from home. Is this enough? Well, in the days of common sense, yes, it would have been more than enough. I turn up to my interviews early, well groomed and ready to roll. Still not enough. The prospective employers are no longer looking at my wealth of experience or ability to do the job; instead they are wanting black and white answers to a quagmire of ridiculous questions. There is no room for shades of grey. Apparently this is supposed to determine my personality and suitability to the job. As if. I've never heard of such rubbish.

Whatever happened to the days when one attended the interview and more often than not, depending on experience and compatibility, would get offered the job? And what's it all for? An average wage, long days, and hard hard work of bending over backwards and being a contortionist. They don't want to know you as a person; your interests, your talents, your family life. Never a mention of the personal.

I really do despair. Will common sense ever return to (once, very reasonable) Kiwi employers? George Orwell was not wrong. The corporate conglomerates these days really do want (non-human) robots. When it comes to job-hunting, the humanity, common sense and decent treatment have gone. Bloody tragic. With over twenty-five years experience in the corporate world/workforce, I've never met with such ridiculous expectations, nor such arrogance from the prospective bosses/companies. They seem to assume that everyone should be begging for their job/s, which they then do their darndest to put out of reach.

So, I'm thinking twice. Re-train, become a caregiver, barista, teacher aide, whatever. Just not anything in the hard-hearted, heartless, robotic-minded corporate world! And jumping through hoops for what? A living wage, just, if I'm careful how I spend it, or am lucky enough to cop a more generous employer/company.

Welfare. Not always a choice at all. Whatever happened to the good employers, the human factor, and the common sense? Or the concept of the employer/employee relationship being a two-way street? Oh, cry me a river! Tears! And a stupid waste of vast experience and future potential! What's the point? So depressing and so wrong.

GST and Petrol rises, really hurting.

2011-04-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

I'm learning to be a homebody. With petrol and food prices going through the roof, it makes sense to spend more time at home, less time in the car. With a good book/DVD collection, why go out to the movies. I've made my own little cinema at home. This probably sounds a bit boring, but a movie plus petrol is at least a $30.00 outing. Now, that $30.00 buys quite a bit of food.

Reading for pleasure is an enjoyable and intelligent thing to do, as long as one is picky over what they choose to read. My favourite authors are Doris Lessing, Ruth Rendell, Janet Frame, Stephen King, Ruth Rendell, P D James, George Orwell, E M Forster, Jane Austen, and a whole host of others, including the Bible and bible commentary.

One can also get into crafts at home, such as drawing/painting, needle crafts, etc, baking, creating, clay modelling, whatever. At least this is creative. And once again, it costs very little, especially if the materials needed are brought over time. The local library is another good option, with DVD and CD collections, an enormous range of books on all subjects, CD Roms, etc, etc. It's good to get away from the internet too.

Going for walks and outings to local parks is another good freebie to be had. Take a picnic, and the cost is just about nil, especially if the park is near your front door.

I'm staying away from malls, shops, cafes and the like for now. Perhaps boring, but it won't kill me....saving those pennies for a rainy day. The cost of petrol, I just can't believe it. Frigging scary. My car is no longer my baby nor my friend, much as I love the freedom owning a set of wheels can offer!

Cool book - Key To Victory

2011-04-14T20:00:00.000-07:00

Whilst browsing in my local library the other day, I came across a very interesting book - Key To Victory, which is an overview of the 2008 NZ General election, with contributions by well-known political commentators/analysts such as Colin James, Therese Arseneau, to name a couple, as well as summations from various and well-known MPs. Most of all, I enjoyed the sections about the strategies the different parties used, and why they succeded or failed, and the scandals that cropped up/crept in.

There are sections on the role the media had to play, what role the NZ political blogosphere had to play (and the difference they made, if any, to the outcome), the campaigns of the main players and perspectives from the political parties themselves. As an added bonus is a DVD, with highlights such as all the TV/Youtube debates, the campaign billboards, the TV ad campaigns, and more.

Really enjoyed this book, and the DVD also. It was fascinating watching the debates again, with the benefit of hindsight. Being able to fast forward, backtrack, and pause is always a good thing. No annoying ad breaks either, a bonus.

Published by Victoria University Press, published in 2010, edited by Stephen Levine and Nigel S Roberts. This is a very interesting and insightful read/watch/flick-through. Highly recommended as fine fodder for any dedicated politico.

I'm so glad it's election year; the result may be a foregone conclusion (but who knows, there's always the element of the unknown/surprise), but whatever the outcome, they're always of great interest and fun. Roll on!

Doris Lessing, a great writer

2011-04-11T00:25:00.000-07:00

Doris Lessing is an awesome writer, like they used to be....Have just been reading her autobiography. She writes so honestly. Her years in the CP make good reading, as well as her insightful description of post-war London. I have not read much fiction by Lessing, only The Fifth Child, which I thoroughly enjoyed. A perfect family, gone wrong, by the birth of a misfit and unusual child.

Writers of Lessing's quality are few and far between these days...gritty and insightful, has a gift for the English language and a wonderful narrative style.

Yikes, can I go back in time and return to painting...

2011-04-10T03:13:00.000-07:00

Golden rule no. 1: Follow your instinct. Golden rule number two: listen to your inner voice. Golden rule number three: follow your heart desires and forget grandioise ideas; Golden rule number four: don't be swayed by what others may say...it's your future.

Too late, too late.......will have to persue my love of painting into the wee hours.......

Oh well. Learning lots about left wing politics...loads of books to study. Loads of words to write...! So much theory. Essays...so out of practice...! Some lectures have been really interesting...but after a hands-on course, a bit of a culture shock! Takes some getting used to...

This does not feel like an election year...

2011-04-06T01:38:00.000-07:00

Just wondering when the campaign is starting for election year. Pretty quiet so far, for obvious reasons, Now April, and not a slogan in sight...well, hardly any.

When are the parties going to get going on their campaigns though? Nothing in sight as of yet, or have I missed something? Still, it's quite a few months out. Is this year a foregone conclusion, with National winning by a landslide? Could be....

I love the national pastime of the general election, so hope to see some action soon...after all, it's only once every three years. Hoardings, please. Debate. Media coverage.Looking foward to the policy discusions and on live TV debates (hopefully, with all the party leaders invited).. November will be here in no time...

Switched course of study, highs and lows...educating Tanya

2011-04-04T16:54:00.000-07:00

I thoroughly enjoyed studying the Cerificate of Design and Art at Unitec, Mt Albert campus, last year. For personal reasons, last year was a bit of a toughie, so the course was something of a life-saver. My time there absolutely flew and I felt that my interest in art and art making really grew and developed. I learned to look at art/practioners in a fresh way. Mostly I painted my way through the course, though I did have a go at both graphic design and photograhy as well. All very enjoyable. Met lots of interesting people, mostly younger than myself (no, I'm not ancient yet), but some near my age as well. Overall, it was a very enriching experience, and I believe, certificate level is an excellent introduction to tertiary study. Having left school at sixteen, I have often regretted not going to Uni when I should have. I ended up going from job to job with no real fulfullment. Returning to study, was the only way out of this dilemma, I decided. Especially as my job had dried up, anyway. For me, starting at certificate level served as an excellent taster and introduction of just what is involved in tertiary study, and what the expectations/requirements are for success and high grades. The staff are very committed to helping the students through the course, and the on-campus facilities are fantastic. You couldn't ask for better.

Being rather indecisive at times, I almost continued this line of study, and I was going to undertake a degree in Visual Arts. However, the field of Social Practice and social work really interests me as well, and in the end, I decided upon the latter as I can paint my my spare time, and maybe bring it into a social context at a future date. I do need to look towards employment though, and this is why I decided to undertake the Social Practice degree instead.
I will greatly miss the greenery and space of the Mt Albert campus, but it is nice to be near the Henderson mall, movies, shops etc, (not that I'll have time for movies, etc!) if further away from home. I would still like to undertake a painting degree at a later date, perhaps extramurally. I love the thought of working within the social services as well, and could maybe combine this with my creative bent. Being a nightowl, I can always paint into the small hours...

I've already met a diverse range of people at the Waitakere campus. There is much reading, research and writing to be done. Yikes. Scary stuff, but also very exciting. The only real low overall is the fact that I cannot study both degrees at once, much as I would like to! Also, I will miss the people I met last year, though I will try to keep in touch. Such a privilege, higher education, whatever the discipline. I am hoping at the end of my degree to obtain not just a job, but a career, that I will love and grow in, while helping others at the same time. Awesome. Lots of politics involved, too. Just up my alley...this blog may well become even more neglected than it's been of late. Hopefully not! It's something I enjoy doing/coming back to, now and again.

Moved house, online at last. Yay!

2011-04-02T14:36:00.000-07:00

It's so nice to be connected to the global village once again. Having a computer without the internet is akin to having a car without wheels. Can't go anywhere, stuck in a timewarp. So, it's nice to be connected again, and to get back to writing here, when I can. Now that I'm studying full-time for a degree in Sociology, my time is going to be limited. I enjoy blogging though, and it's something that does not take long.

Having spent a month off-line, as I admit, I am no electronic boffin (in setting up the blasted thing, found help at last! Yes, I'm hopeless with gadgets at times!), I have really missed my on-line fixes, including the political blogosphere. It's annoying relying only on the printed word for latest events/ commentary, because it's so slanted and limited. Having missed all the latest political online hullabaloo, I am now in catch-up mode. Put simply, I could hug my internet, and my kind helper.Yipee! Now to the blogs...this could take a while...

The King's Speech

2011-03-01T17:21:00.000-08:00

Wanting an escape from the stress and hard work of shifting house, (though of course, nothing compared to having to what Canterbury is going through) and just needing a break, I decided to visit the cinema. Refreshing indeed.

There was plenty of gritty-looking movies to choose from, but I am glad I picked the above, The King's Speech. I just loved every moment and every detail, from the wonderful acting by a sublime cast, including Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham-Carter and of course, the illustrious Colin Firth. Really enjoyed the lush sets, the history lesson and the story itself, which was never boring or stuffy. Who would have thought a film about a stutterer would work, but it does, and it is a humane, thoughtful subject. It also gives one an interesting look into the imagined inner-lives of royalty

A film that was different, told a brave tale, and with sublime production values, ala Merchant-Ivory. Of the other Oscar contenders I have only seen Black Swan, (average, I thought), and the Social Network. I am glad that the top prize went to the King's Speech, very well deserved. It's great to see 'films' getting made again, rather than action-packed 'movies. True Grit looks really good, as does Conviction. At the moment, a sublime feast of quality cinematic joys seem to be on offer. Black Swan was never dull, but I felt it relied too much on shock value, rather than a really good script. It had the potential to be awesome, but I was disappointed. A potentially great story not fufulling its promise, in my view.. Also, there is very little ballet in it., overall, nor much realism. For a good ballet movie, 1977's The Turning Point, starring Anne Bancroft and Shirley McClaine, is still very very hard to beat! Anyway, loved The King's Speech. This is how they used to make them!

My worst movie of the year absolutely has to be the ghaslty Burlesque, which I found cheesy, cliched and just plain boring. The dancing was dull, the characters harsh and unappealing, the story a rehash of smoky Hollywood B-graders. Only the singing was remotely interesting, but I could not wait for the end credits to roll. Cher's myriad talents were sorely wasted on this glitzy puff, which is a real shame. Suffering through Burlesque made me wish I was watching Silkwood instead. (A film where Cher matches Meryl Streep every step of the way).

I did enjoy the Social Network, but for me, it was a tad glib and glossy, although fascinating all the same. So, The King's Speech is without a doubt my favourite movie of the year, having all the incrediants of a long-lasting, well-made and memorable film. And not one computerised special effect in sight, thank goodness! Instead it relied on the timeless values of great acting, a wonderful script and divine, lush cinematography. Loved the sets and the costumes, too. The story is original and fascinating. An unusual subject, handled with panache. A touch of the historical as well. What more could you ask for?

An excellent year for good films overall, it's so neat to have such a strong bunch in contention for the accolades and awards. Reminds me of the great (retro) times past! Keep them coming, and just maybe, the public will return en mass to the joys of great and lasting cinema.

Christchurch Chaos

2011-02-21T18:00:00.000-08:00

My thoughts and best wishes to everyone affected by the quake. Poor old Christchurch, even worse this time, with death and injury involved. Is someone trying to get our attention, I wonder? It would perhaps seem so. The sight of the collapsed cathedral is heart-wrenching as well. Very tough break for Christchurch. and its residents. A sad day. May God be with Christchurch and its people, right now. Tragedy again, and the timing was much worse this time. Prayers. It certainly puts my own 'rental' problems into perspective, that's for sure. Kia Kaha.

Rental Chaos in Supercity land, (and elsewhere).

2011-02-17T01:37:00.000-08:00

Tried renting a home lately? What a nightmare. I have been looking for a two to three bedroom place in West Auckland, and the going is really really tough. Everything available is snapped up really fast, and yet, I've seen nothing but pretty depressing dumps, with large price tags attached. And as usual, no pets, rah, rah, rah. My cats have to be rehomed, sadly. I wonder, how many families with kids are going to end up in relatives garages, or worse, with absolutely nowhere to go at all. What has caused the problem, outside of the recession. Where have all the rentals gone to? It would seem, many landlords are cashing up their own home, and moving back into their rentals. Landlords can no longer claim losses on depreciation, Homes are also taking longer to sell, it would seem, so this must be a factor also. Luckily for my family and I, we have a friend who is letting us move into their soon-to-be empty apartment in Te Atatu South, but without this avenue, my family and I would be well and truly up the creek, without a paddle, or should I say, home. What can the govt do to help this dire situation, and how much worse will it get from here, I wonder? Much worse before it gets better, I bet. Much, much worse. Scary indeed. And not to mention, very, very expensive for what you get! Ouch!

There are no jobs, Mr Key...

2011-02-10T01:01:00.000-08:00

Why did we bother changing the government, I often wonder. What with the smacking referendum being ignored, the ETS being shafted upon us, the EFA being re-done, and the unemployed now being blamed for their often blameless situation (as in, just where are the jobs?), I really do feel as though I blew my vote.

The jobs are just not there, and the few that remain often receive hundreds of applicants. Just ridiculous. Where's the empathy from John and Bill now, the empathy I thought I saw while they sat on the Opposition benches. Long gone, that's where. The low-paid get almost no tax-breaks, while the wealthy are continually rewarded. What ever happened to my block of cheese, I wonder? So much for a brighter future, smaller government, or fairness and transparency...utter disappointment this watery government and it's photo-obsessed leader.

Still, once bitten, twice shy. I won't be voting for purpled, deaf National come November. And where to turn this year? In one word; Winston, The stark and obvious choice.

Cats, and kittens, birds and fish...

2011-01-27T20:18:00.000-08:00

While I meant to attend Phil Goff's State of the Nation speech (just for the fun of it, and because I live nearby to the New Lynn venue ), I ended up drivng my kids out to the SPCA instead, where for the paltry sum of $50.00 (half price at the moment, a summer special...), we adopted ourselves a cat. The staff and volunteers out there were really friendly and helpful, and there were some very cute kitties and cats available for adoption. Being a busy mum and part-time student, I decdied to go for a cat rather than a kitten, just seemed wiser especially as we already have a fully grown moggie. Anyway, we ended up with a lovely slinky, fluffy, dark brown female feline, with enormous yellow eyes. She is gentle and shy, and sweet natured. Settled in in no time at all, and is vice free.

So, my eldest son, an absolute animal-lover, now has two cats, two budgies and several fish. Fun indeed. Yep, he is really devoted, despite the work involved...might have to move to a farm...yes, how I wish!...Adopting a cat or kitten from the SPCA...recommended. The kids really enjoyed seeing the animals, choosing a pet, finding a name, settling her in, saving a life, and having a new animal friend. Purrfect.

Roll on Parliament though, I can't wait for the House debates to resume, this political junkie is feeling rather starved...am so glad it's election year, an added bonus.

I cannot bring myself to vote National, either.

2011-01-22T19:39:00.000-08:00

I had really high hopes when the Key-led National party took office in 2008. All I can say is those high hopes were very soon dashed. Yet another leader who does not listen to majority view, does not follow through on several key (pardon the pun) pre-election promises, (or changes them) and possibly has a hidden agenda. Key is also far more Left than Right centred, in my opinion, which seems strange when he is leading a centre-right (supposedly) Party. At least Labour never pretended to be anything but Left, or centre-Left. Whichever. Key is far too focused on being Mr Popular rather than Mr Do-The-Right-Thing, he seems to test the wind before he acts, quite often shifting his views, depending on bow the wind blows, according to the polls. He ignores referendums, especially controversial ones.Where is the vision and the backbone? Is National all about John Key and not much else? Is it all about the photo ops, the being in the limelight? Where is the substance, the heart, the courage of his and National's convictions?

So, I won't be voting blue this year. Possibly I won't vote at all, or possibly will vote for NZ First (at least Winston offers true points of difference), or the Kiwi Party, who have done well re the referendum on the draconian, anti-democratic and anti-family Anti Smacking Rucus.

I am looking forward to this year's election, just because I always find it enjoyable, but I just don't have great expectations anymore. One and the same, whatever the name. So disappointing, that 'brighter future' certainly faded fast. Smile and Wave, wave and smile, but don't rock the boat, whatever you do. Don't make the changes so badly needed.Disappointing, to say the very least. So, the champers is back on ice, possibly for a long time.

Go, Winston. You're our best hope, the last of the true Right...and the one person that might upset a foregone, boring and predictable conclusion.'.fingers and toes crossed. Roll on November, I just wish it could be sooner. Still, the rugby should be good...and our biggest consolation. And I don't even like rugby! It's laugh or cry, so I might as well look on the bright side. Hopefully...!

Wellington. A Capital experience! This Aucklander is moving down there, eventually...

2011-01-17T21:04:00.000-08:00

I have to say, I totally agree with the recent plaudits of Lonley Planet's re Wellington being the çoolest little capital in the word, even if I've only been to one other, and that was Canberra. I loved Canberra too, but it's a very different place to Wellywood! I was lucky enough to be given a return plane ticket, with accommodation included, to Wellington, as a Christmas present. What a well-thought out gift!

So, I've just had a three day stint in our Capital city (though, not my first or only visit), I just have to say, the place absolutely rocks. There is such a vibe about this city, and there is a myriad of choices of things to see and do. From a huge range of art galleries, exhibitions, art-house movies, the fun and hustle of Countenay Place, the wonderful Te Papa, the beautiful and large botanic gardens, the boutique shopping, the many bars, restuarants and cafes, some lovely architecture, especially around the Paliament area, the city bays and beaches and of coure, the outer suburbs.

After a day or two in the city, I felt like getting out into the wilds (or as close as possible), so for a meare $13.00 return, caught a train out to Paraparaumu, which was a lovely scenic ride, and I really enjoyed seeing some of the Kapiti Coast. Paraparaumu itsself offered a wide range of shops, but being tired of shopping till dropping, I opted instead to catch a bus to the local beach, which also had a few cafe's, a pub, a fantastic corner ice-cream shop, a few nice motels and a great, long beach. The water was surprisingly warm, and only the wind kept me from staying all day. I also found the locals to be friendly and warm, and met a really nice family all the way from Dunedin on the train.

Arriving back at the city at aounnd eight oçlock that evening, I walked from the railway station around to Courtenay Place, and this did not take long at all, about ten minutes or so all up. My accommodation was really great too, the Trinity Hotel in upper Willis St, very central, and very reasonable for the price of $69.00 a night. Three Star, and all that I needed. A nice room, furnished in my favourite colour, deep reds.

I was impressed at how well-kept and polished the central city streets are. Unlike downtown Auckland, there is no scuffiness, no prolifieration of cheapy two dollar shops, no real junkiness at all, in fact. Just high-class buildings, great shopping, exellent dining out, all with a friendly, zesty vibe.

Also enjoyed catching the train to the Hutt Valley, Lower Hutt has a very good Westfield shopping centre. Loved the surround hills and greenery, and next time, I am going to stay out that way. The last time I was down, I stayed at a great little B & B in Wallaceville, this was only $79.00 a night, for huge rooms, your own ensuite, a large kitchen, computer, and breakfast. In hindsight, much as I enjoyed the city, I prefer to stay out of it, I like the beauty of the quieter Hutt Valley, etc.

If you go in for backpacking, and sometimes I do, The Cambridge Hotel on Cambridge Terrace is really good, and offers both backpackers and hotel accommodation. Eggs on toast for $2.00, and a really central location, right in the heart of Courtenay Place (well, almost). Sadly, Parliament was not in session, but I had beautiful weather to make up for this! Also enjoyed a coffee at the aptly named Ministry of Food cafe, which is just behind the Beehive area. Great coffee and good food, but the thing is with Wellington, there are so many choices. Backbenchers was pretty quiet, and it was also bad timing for a debate night. Never mind, next time! Courtenay Place was my fav though, just for the sheer volume of choices when it came to drinking and eating, as well as colourful entertainment.

So, Wellington really rocks, short on time, there's lots more I could have done and seen, and I plan to go back sometime soon. Eventually, I would love to move down there, Petone was a very cool place...galleries, arty shops, cafes on masse! The Hutt Valley too, very nice.....yep, I'm going to move. It's time to live inside the Beltway. I can see why Lonely Planet loves Wellywood, and so do I. What a Christmas pressie!

Key country, aka, Helensville, I just love New Zealand so much.

2011-01-08T13:56:00.000-08:00

At the risk of this sonding like a travel blog, I wish to comment on some of the places I have been visiting of late. John Key's electorate of Helensville is always worth a weekend visit. It is a lovely quaint little town, full of interesting boutqiue type shops, yet more Colonial buildings (as is Puhoi), and interesting, friendly locals. It's also a lovely, coutry drive from Auckland, down the North Western motorway, through Kumeu, and Huapai. And on that note, I have always wondered why Key is the MP for Helensivlle, yet his office is in Huapai. You can't miss his office though, there is a huge smiling picture of Key's face adnorning the place.

Anyway, Helensville, Keysville, whatever, a very nice, unique place. Try the Tilly and Lace shop, it's gorgoues, everything lacy and feminine and just gorgeous. At the top of the shopping village is an art gallery, a second hand bookshop and a great cafe, all combined into the one. Serves great coffee, the books are dirt-cheap $5.00 to $8.00 each, generally, the art is interesting, and the service is with a mile. Also on offer are printed scarfes and hand-made quilts.

I would love to stay in the local B and B sometime, and I would be remiss not to mention the old cinema, complete with a cool curiosity shop, that sells, amongst other things, retro movie daybills. A guy called John runs this, an Elam art school graduate, and he is very interesting to talk to, has great knowledge about his wares. Especaily the movie memorabellia.

Even when going to Orewa and beyond, I usually drive there via Westgate and Riverhead, as I just love the painterly, delightful scenery. Helensville is like a much larger Puhoi, heaps to see and do, and all set amongs rolling green hills. Awesome. And those National voters are just so friendly.

Through the tunnel to Puhoi, Devonshire teas and sunny childhood memories...

2011-01-06T03:59:00.000-08:00

Having spent a good chunk of my childhood living within the rolling hills of Bohemenian Puhoi, I sometimes like to visit, to see how the place as changed or not. Mostly it hasn't changed; all the roads are now tar-sealed (I used to enjoy riding my pony along some of those gravelled roads...), but the place still looks the same. The lovely New Englandish looking church is still there, along with the library, the schoolhouse and the general store. Not forgetting of course, the infamous Puhoi pub. All along side the picturesque Puhoi river, of course. To my grown-up eyes, it just looks a bit smaller. It's all very pretty, and could be a set out of Walnut Grove, of Little House on the Praire fame.

Besides the pub and the annual A and P show, Puhoi is famous for its home-made cheese, it's Bohemanian background, its local artisans and the lovely old cottage still serving Devonshire Teas. This is not far from the main drag of Puhoi, towards Aroha. Anyway, decided to visit the tearooms today, for the first time in about thirty-odd years. It was well worth the wait. The fresh cream scones are enormous and delicious, served with warm jam and your choice of tea or coffee. At $10.50 this is great value, the scones are light and fluffy and ginormous. There are other mouth-watering selections too, such as chocolate mudcake, cheesecake, and home-made steak pie. And what a setting; take your choice, as long as its not raining, the outside tables are the nicest, with trees and flowers and a picturesque feel. The service is with a smile, and it's not called a diet-free zone for nothing.The cottage itself is an orignal villa, with original wallpaper, timber, etc, etc, quality, such character. Much like the hundred year old villa my family lived in, dark hallways, very high, ornamented ceilings, and quite often, huge spiders.

What with the new tunnels, the trip to Puhoi is a hop, skip, jump from Auckland these days. On the farm which my parents once owned is now a place to stay called Kauri Lodge, at the top of Fiddlers Hill. I would love to try this place out; funny to think that the paddock we kids rode/explored in is now home to a sprawling dwelling, complete with Kauri trees and glow-worms. The Puhoi show is up and coming this weekend, and back in the '80's, was always really good. So, anyway, Puhoi, land of cheese, scones, beer, original, historical buildings and sweeping green valleys is absolutely well worth a long afternoon visi, at the very least..

Those jam scones, to die for! The pub is infamous and the tranquil scenery is absolutely gorgeous. Much as I enjoy travelling through the tunnel, I prefer the original route; windy, but very very beautiful, especially near the Waiwera, Wenderholm area. Talk about blessed.

Bring back the BBC, 80's and 90's TV dramas/comedy, absolutely top shelf.

2011-01-02T01:05:00.000-08:00

Having no interest in the myriad range of reality TV shows on offer, I have invested in some nostalgia TV on DVD. The BBC have a brilliant back catalogue to choose from, wow, what a huge selection. Once upon a time, television absolutely rocked! One of myall-time favourites has to be the Inspector Morse series, because it's so very watchable. I've never been much of a crime nor a who-dunnit buff, but I enjoy this series for its all-round quality. First off, the wrting is excellent, I love the ascerbic but interesting character of the title character, Chief Inspector Morse, such dry wit. He is not married, a classical music buff (like myself), and often spouts obscure bits of poetry. Once an Oxford man, with a first name he refuses to use and for much of the series, keeps a mystery. In stark contrast, his sidekick, Sargeant Lewis is a cricket-loving family man, who would rather spend an evening watching Coronation Sreet than attending the opera. The English locations are gorgeous, and I would be remiss not to mention Morse's very sleek, collectable, wine-red Jaguar. Often there is a small love interest (normally coming to nothing), and the dialogue is well-rounded and clever. I have picked up Inspector Morse on DVD from the Warehouse for as little as $15.00 (five episodes), this is fantastic value for money. As the promo says, you don't just watch Inspector Morse, you live it', it's just that kind of show. It's so witty and insightful in its writing. There is nothing on TV today remotely like it. The production values are almost faultess, along with many other BBC series of that era.

Other favourites of mine are One Foot In the Grave (Í don''t beeelieve it!), Waiting For God, Tenko, To The Manor Born, Are You Being Served, Fawlty Towers, Only Fools and Horses, To The Manor Born,, Porridge, Dad's Army, Upstairs, Downstairs......to name but a few! What a huge back catalogue. Amazing. Such a stark contrast to the **** of today on TV. BBC or otherwise.

Why the BBC produce this type of progamme today? It's all about dumbed down TV reality shows, endless cooking, games or chat shows. Dumb and dumber. TV has had several golden eras and the BBC of the 80's/90's was one of them. At least these wonderful programmes are now available on DVD, and the drivel on TV can be turned off, and BBC TV, clever, well-written, humorous, real, very well acted, great characterisation ,(without being reality, or so called),etc, can be shown. Nostalgic, wonderful, entertaining! Thanks, BBC. The golden years!

Raving it up at the New Lynn RSA.

2010-12-31T05:21:00.000-08:00

I just love my local RSA, and as always, they put on a really good 'do' tonight. A terrific band playing authentic Rock and Roll, great company, food and half-price drinks. What better way to see in the New Year, may I ask? There were some great 60's outfits being worn, and the night was jitterbugged away. New Lynn rocks, it has a totally '60's feel about it, and call me an old fogie, but the NL RSA is as good as anywhere. Nice people, great times. The Te Atatu RSA isn't bad either, and the meals and drinks are even cheaper that at New Lynn, though I find the atmosphere more low-key, let's just say it's not quite as bubbly, in my humble opinion. Still a good place to visit though, and the food is really good. I recommend the steak burger adn the myriad selection of yummy salads.

Before midnight we whipped down to the waterfront to watch the fireworks display from Okahu Bay, magnificent, and well worth the traffic queues afterwards. Made me feel proud to be an Aucklander. What a jewel of a city it is, and especially at night. Happy New Year, NZ! I'm not missing Facebook at all, by the way. (New Year's resolution No 1 - stay off Facebook. Blogs are so much more fun)! Roll on 2011, may it be a cracker. An added bonus already - election year. Bring it on. Delicious! Lolly-scambles galore? Or not? Either way, can't wait for the usual electoral hullabaloo. Always fun, especially for a politicial junkie like myself. Let the games begin!

A little bit of luck...to be born female, for a start...

2010-12-30T12:39:00.000-08:00

Personally, in the gender debate, or what is left of it, I feel that these days it is luckier to be born female. Women have as many if not more opportunities than men in this day and age, can have the joy of childbearing/birth/raising firsthand, can still work, study, and play. Yes, we can have it all. Also there is the fun of wearing the more colourful and daring fashions, a myriad arrange of cosmetics (not my scene though), and quite often, I believe, a far more artistic and emotional kind of mind/thinking. Not that men don't raise children of course or for that matter don't wear make-up, lovely clothes, but these things is and will always be, more a womans'' domain. Being female does not tie one to the kitchen sink, though if we didn't cook and clean (whatever our gender) we would live in squalor and starve)...sometimes it is necessary and even of course, enjoyable...

It's a good era to be a woman, as the female leaders of our time have proven. Ciest La Vie! I would love to see NZ have another highly versatile, deep thinking, with a genuine smile, female PM!

Travelling South...

2010-12-27T23:55:00.000-08:00

Golden Rule Number One when travelling South, Auckland to Rotorua, - always check that there is no special event on (stock car racing,in this case), so that you don't arrive in the evening to find every room in the place completely booked out! I never normally book Rotorua because of the myriad choice of motels/hotels/bed and breakfasts'etc, and at Christmas time, it is normally fairly quiet Not this time, worst luck! Arrived in the pouring rain, in the evening, tired and hungry, to find the annoying No Vacancy sign flashing at every single inn. Fun indeed, not! Was almost going to go on to Taupo out of desperation, but as Taupo was not my intention, I decided there just had to bee a room left. After much door-knocking and enquiring, around nine o''clock at night I managed to grab the very last room available at the Heritage Hotel (paid more than I would have liked, but it was that or the car.). So, there is a lesson learned. Book ahead, always! Always, always,always. Never, ever assume! Anyway, it's a lovely hotel, with great amenities and a scrumptious, cooked breakfast was thrown in. Very nice of them. I will be forever grateful, not only for the breakfast, but for the last room, I''m sure, in the entire town!

Rotorua is a magical place. Spiritual, cultural, fun and with the most unique, gorgoeus scenery. Also, I enjoy its touristy hullabaloo. I enjoy Hamilton too, but more for the shops and hte city hub feel. Soaking in the bubbles in the hotel spa was wonderful, and well worth the drive through blinding rain, which came out of nowhere.

Happy New Year, holiday joy., The beach is out for me at this time of year, just cannot stand the chaotic queues of traffic. Free flow all the way down South, wonderbar.

Kia Ora....and cheers. Rotorua absolutely rocks, with a unique sparkle and zest all of its own.. Champion. Rain or shine, it's lovely to be here!

Merry Christmas, One and All

2010-12-23T23:01:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year, and what it is meant to stand for. Merry Christmas to the few who follow this page and the many who do not. Oh well! So nice to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, and what he stood/stands for. Wonderful to come to the end of the year and to have the time, hopefully, to reflect upon the past twelve months. For myself it has been a rather turbulent but also an enriching time. My design course has now been completed and I can move on from there. Good, but a sigh of relief, too. It was a slog at the end, I have to say.

More importantly though, it has been a good, fulfulling year with my family and friends, my two lovely boys, but very sad re the Miners and the Christchurch earthquake. Makes one take stock and reflect upon the smallness of our seemingly large problems, and the fact of how every day, how lucky and blessed we are, just to live in this lovely land. Blessings, New Zealand, and best wishes for 2011. Merry Christmas. God Bless. Family time is the best.

De-Facebooked, forever.

2010-12-23T01:05:00.000-08:00

Having deactivated my Facebook acconnt awhile aback now, (not for the first time, though, I'm sorry to say), I am this time around not missing it at all. Tired of all the inane commenting, by both myself and others, for me, it became a dangerous drug. This sounds over-dramatic, but I was a Facebook freak for far too long.. I have finally realised what a huge time-zapper it can be, and just how empty it is, although sometimes it had its uses. Celebrity pages are the most interesting, but can be static, and often a one-way event. I just don't see the point in having loads of 'friends' who I've never even met, and I'd rather meet the ones I do have face to face over coffee, etc. Does the technical world have to take away everything that was face to face, for real, and in the moment? Nope. Far nicer to see people in the flesh, to see their facial expressions, to have a laugh with them, to enjoy their actual company. I have avowed not to return to the drug of Facebook, and its one New Year's resolution I intend to keep. Also gives me more time for reading books, writing letters, doing art, hanging out with the family, watching movies, cooking, etc, etc, etc. Social networking. I'm over it!

Working Mum versus Stay At Home Mum, guilt still rules

2010-12-19T18:52:00.000-08:00

Having tried it both ways when my kids were really small, staying at home full time, against working four full days a week, it's really hard to be guilt free either way. With working, you feel like you're leaving the raising of your littlie's to others, missing out on magic moments, on quantity rather than just quality time, whereas staying at home is far more relaxing I found, lovely having all that time on your hands with your babes, but the guilt remains; no longer are you earning money so you have no right to the usual little treats, no one thanks you for what you do (not that they often did in the workplace either, and there is less of a feel-good, achieiving, I-can-do-this job, and love it, factor. But at the end of hte day, I think there can be a balance; work part time, work from home, work when the kids are in school. Overall, staying at home with the kids was the best choice, and I would hate to get back onto the working full time and mothering treadmill, now. Their smiling faces have been worth it, and the time just goes so fast.....teenagers soon....a whole new ballgame....or not! Support groups like Mainly Music, coffee mornings etc, was really great, the mums very relaxed and friendly, when I was staying at home. I am happy not to return to the corporate world, they don't and will never ever understand the plight of the working Mum!

European Masters Exhibition at Te Papa Museum, Wellywood. Awesome and awesomer!

2010-12-14T13:49:00.000-08:00

A favourite...Mothehood...or Ín the hammock''

Really enjoyed the European Masters Exhibition currently showing at Te Papa. There are a wide range of paintings on display, including some Monets, Degas and a Picasso or two, plus of course, a whole range of others. The variety on show is really interesting, and its amazing to see the works in real life. The show is well curated, and the information available about each painting and painter is in-depth and varied. It's a show that needs a good couple of hours to take in, or a return visit or two. The entry fee was $18.00 for a student, $28.00 unsubsidised, not bad at all. I have been having a rest from painting of late, have been feeling all painted out, but seeing this exhibition has gotten me all fired up again. Wellington is these days a very cool place; arty, cultural, character-filled, pretty. Glad I drove from Auckland rather than flew, travelling via Whanganui and New Plymouth, talk about grand scenery; summer lights on the greens of the rolling hills; just beautiful and crying out to be rendered on canvas! Sometimes there is nothing quite like the freedom of the open road, with time and space and the beauty of choices, on one's hands. The only snag was, as Auckland drew closer I became melancholy and sad...why are the end of holidays so depressing?.Back to reality can be the absolute pits! But oh, what fun was had, loved it, every moment...highly recommend the outer Northern suburbs of Wellington as well. what happening place...variety galore.

Parliament, live...!

2010-12-07T23:19:00.000-08:00

Watching Question Time live is far more fun than watching it broadcasted. To be there in person, to see the debate as it happens, the voices loud and clear, the fun, the camardarie, the jeckling, heckling, interjections, to see our representatives face to face. And completely free, except for my time. Really impressed with how well National handle the questions posed to them. Talk about live theatre. Lovely surroundings, love the history involved. Great fun, and definately not a waste of time.

Now for the museum...Wellington is indeed the best little capital around. Having not being down here for eight years or so, it's refreshing to visit again. So much on offer, yet tranquil and quaint. Love it, including the surrounding hills and suburbs, and such a contrast to glittering, sprawling, sometimes chaotic, Auckland. Supercity? Sometimes. It often depends on the suburb, the beach, the day, the event, the mood, etc.

I'm voting for the Kiwi Party next year.

2010-11-29T23:28:00.000-08:00

My vote (and all electoral energies) are going to go to the Kiwi Party next year, as they have done an admirable job of trying to uphold our democracy over the smacking referendum result. National and Key have no right ignoring the people's voice on this, and it beggars belief that they think they do...so disappointing. Old news maybe, but far too important to forget or let go. Democracy, democracy... or is it?

Also, the Kiwi Party is founded upon Christian beliefs...one of the few left here in NZ, sadly. Is this being reflected in our crime rate, high unemployment and poverty levels, our general social ills?

My Seminar on the art practice of Colin McCahon, due Monday, I have opted for Question B. My Research Practice Influcences, Explain using specific examples the way in which the artist research method has influenced the way that our work or your practice. Explain what you have learnt from writing this seminar.

2010-09-16T15:38:00.000-07:00

Six Days in Nelson and Canterbury, 1950, oil, McCahon

McCahon

The Promised Land, 1948, oil on canvas, McCahon

Internationally renowned New Zealand born painter Colin McCahon painted on large scale canvasses,
using the paint mediums of oil and acrylic. His influences were other abstact expressionist lanscape painters such as Toss Woollaston. McCahon was also heavily influenced by Biblical and Spiritual motifs, and he painted with a dark, murky palette. Cubism and tonal painting were of interest to McCahon. Later on in his career, McCahon added text to his work, and he was known to paint barren landscapes, inspired by the hills of Otago, Northland and Nelson (as depicted above), as well as some of the Titirangi region, especially the many Kauri trees.

My own work is influenced by McCahon as I enjoy the atmospheric, muddied colours he painted with. I also enjoy the form of his landscapes, and the isolation that his paintings so often depict. His painterly style is of interest to me, the thickness and thinness of the application of the paint, and the relationships of oranges against brown, creams and black. This lends impact and atmosphere to the work, wish I wish to push in mine. McCahon actually travelled many of the landscapes he painted, and as a practicing Christian, he added Biblical motifs to his work, such as the Crucifixition. McCahon also added spiritual symbolism to his works, such as candles and jugs, as in the painting above, titled The Promised Land. The tones he chose to paint in also add an interesting realm to his works.

The three above images of paintings by McCahon are diverse in their range, but connected by both sytle and colour. McCahon was interested in both figurative painting and exploring colour.. This has enthused me to push my own work towards a more conceptual direction, to grow my own research practise (towards more contemporary New Zealand landscape painters), and to study figuaritive painting on an intensive level, including looking at the painters who greatly influenced McCahon, such as fellow New Zealanders, Toss Wollaston, Rita Angus, James K Baxter and the movement of German Expressionst painters, such as the German Expresionist painter, Edvard Munch.

I really enjoy the fact that McCahon added text to his later works; with this he was pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable at the time, and he felt that his paintings without words were not expressing his message fully. My own landscape painting has changed because due to my study of McCahon, and I wish to express the isolation and atmosphere that McCahon was such a master at. I too wish to borrow from the schools of Cubism, Tonalism and Abstract Expressionism, and to paint about painting, rather than merely depicting a view.

What I have learned from writing this seminar is that a diverse range of research materials, such as books, DVDs, magazine or blog articles, etc, really helps the cause, that editing is vital, this seminar is to be presented for three minutes only, that I struggled to master Power Point, and that adding visuals to my text adds impact to the overall result. To answer the question posed, to avoid going off into tangents.

I also learned that I wish to go much further with my own painting, to push the conventions and boundaries, to improve my colour mixing and to play with varying styles of paint layering, such as thick thin, the use of palette knives and to experiment with painting on surfaces other than canvas, such as wood, board, paper, linen, cloth, soft material, lino-cuts, and to add to my painting tools, to use charcoal, Indian Ink. pencil, pastels, graphite, to draw and paint on varying scales. To explore my interest in photography further, to mix it up with and perhaps combine with the language of painting. To paint landscapes from real life, but to mostly paint about painting itself. To improve upon my research practice, and to take the time to research at a more in-depth level. For example, to look into the influences upon Toss Woollaston, and the wider influcences upon McCahon, such as the German Expressionists and Surrealist painters,followed up by the influences upon them. To ensure that my research is fully layered and contextual. Thank you for listening. Any questions?

Bibliography:

I Am TVNZ documentary on DVD
www.colinmccahon.com
www.Biblical references.mccahon.com
Art New Zealand Magazine, issue...
www.the art of tosswoollaston.com
www.newzealandpainters.com
the Dundedin School of Art
www.Wikipedia.McCahon
www.James K Baxter.com
Colin McCahon Artist New Edition, Reed, NZ, 1984

Hockey!

2010-09-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

Trees...

2010-09-16T15:31:00.000-07:00

Having fun with the camera...

Looking at landscapes, trying for atmosphere...

2010-09-16T15:26:00.000-07:00

Playing with the Camera settings...

2010-09-16T15:20:00.000-07:00

More photos, fruity....

2010-09-16T15:08:00.000-07:00

Still life, for painting...

Research Assignment on Colin McCahon, pending, completed on paper...

2010-09-07T17:28:00.000-07:00

The objective of this assignment is to discuss the works of painter Colin McCahon, his influences and the range and history of his practise. I have opted to study McCahon as his style of painting influences mine. I consider his work to be inspired, visionary and atmospheric.

Colin McCahon is largely known as a landscape painter. Along with his contemporary Toss Woollaston, he is locked into the history of New Zealand art. (to be continued...)

As below, experimenting with 'at home' shots.

2010-08-21T18:17:00.000-07:00

Experimenting with surrroundings, colours and textures...

2010-08-21T18:10:00.000-07:00

Enjoying my borrowed camera...

My old suburb, childhood memories...

2010-08-21T17:50:00.000-07:00

Lemons in print...

2010-08-21T17:39:00.000-07:00

Still life in photography;...flow on from painting...

2010-08-21T17:36:00.000-07:00

Still life in photography, carrying on the theme from painting...

more photography...through the trees...

2010-08-21T17:30:00.000-07:00

More playing with photography, railway crossing

2010-08-14T19:39:00.001-07:00

Floral still life, acrylic on canvas.

2010-08-14T19:37:00.000-07:00

Painiting experiments...watercolour and acrylic

2010-08-14T19:34:00.000-07:00

Experimenatal photography...having fun with reflections, etc.

2010-08-14T19:27:00.001-07:00

As per below, experiements in photography.

2010-08-14T19:19:00.000-07:00

photography, I liked this shot I took, so posted here.

2010-08-14T19:11:00.001-07:00

Atmospheric?

As per post below, scanned this in over photos, still in progress...

2010-08-13T22:14:00.000-07:00

Graphic art is a step-by-step process which, I prefer doing my own hand-drawn work, but it has been an experience learning it, or trying to! It's amazing what Photoshop can do, once you know your way around the program! The end design will be going on to a t-shirt...kind of different. The above was of course hand-drawn, but there are just too many colours, which for me, is not unusual!

Grahic Art...project in progress, "Represent" my neighbourhood....

2010-08-13T22:03:00.000-07:00

This is my work so far, for the Represent project I'm doing for the graphic art module, this is very much still in progress, I've got to get down to three colours only and make the image work. I have a better version I've yet to upload. I drove to Orakei, took photos of landmarks (from my childhood), scanned them in and learned how to photo shop them, a very different process to painting, I'm still working on the final design, but my final colours are green, black and red, and the design has been changed again.., it's not so blocky or multi-coloured. I will upload here in due course, I'm much happier with the final version...I think! It will end up on a T shirt, badge and swing ticket, the three of these can have differing designs, and probably should. Good fun, was refreshing to try something different, but I have to admit, I struggled with the computer somewhat! Photo Shop is an amazing concept!

An array of my more recent work...not a great photo, I have to say!

2010-08-13T21:22:00.000-07:00

We all had to embellish a jacket...I went for the painted look.....,

2010-08-05T15:15:00.000-07:00

Mu 'Painterly' Designer Jacket, .....paint on denim...haven't worn it yet!

Another Biblical painting...soft angel....

2010-08-05T15:01:00.000-07:00

This is from last Semestr's five week painting module, I'm now doing Graphic Design, but still paint when I can! Five weeks of painting was great, yet it just flew,

2010-08-05T14:56:00.000-07:00

Bertie's beautiful designer jacket!

Blurry umbrellas, sports day in the rain...madness, butfun!

2010-08-05T14:49:00.000-07:00

My son's school cross country, mud, water, rain and umbrellas!

Glass bottles, reflectons...

2010-08-05T14:44:00.000-07:00

Photography....some glass botltles, Loppdell House, Titirangi, as much as I enjoy taking photos, I prefer the texture and immediacy of paint, the hues, the density of the colours and the fun of mixing my own colours...a world I disappear into!

2010-08-05T14:39:00.000-07:00

One of my muted, but abstract works, based on my Christian beliefs...need to improve....!

Looking at scale.......

2010-08-04T17:20:00.000-07:00

Scale...

Looking at typography for my "Represent" project...

2010-08-04T16:27:00.000-07:00

Graphic Design...here I come

2010-07-29T15:25:00.001-07:00

My Orakei design so far...

Graphic art for this module, "Representing" my neighbourhood. Will post the outcome later, !!! A t-shirt, swing ticket, printed scarf, etc, etc...my neighbourhood will be the place of my childhood, which is Orakei. Now, how I wish I still lived there, with those million dollar views! Well, parts of it, anyway...memories........an interesting place, a suburb of sharp contrasts...even the state houses cost megabucks, and Orakei School, really atmospheric, such character, almost forboding...

The above design is goiing to end up on a poster and T-Shirt, it's still in progress though.. the final design is due by the end of next week...fun!

De-Fazebooked

2010-07-18T02:54:00.000-07:00

Once again. Addictive yet static. Back to study tomorrow, the less distractions the better. At least one or two public figures actually participate on their Facebook pages, respond to comments, queries, and know what social networking means; not a one-way street, nor a place of endless deletions of polite dissenters -.join the conversation....but do it my way...!

The state of Hollywood movies, Comic-strip mania, but where are the serious films?

2010-06-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

One has to really pick and choose movies these days. Long-gone is the wonderful selection of old, such as Ordinary People, Terms of Endearment or Schindler's List, for example. Hollywood these days seems to be catering to the teenage market only, with serious, adult and good movies being left-out in the cold, or not being made by Hollywood, at all. It is now up to the Independents to make gritty, dramatic and sensible cinema. The selecion on offer at the mainstream movie complexes these days is for me, pretty unappetising. I have absolutely no interest in seeing a movie based on a video-game for example, or a comic book or even a blog. This seems to be the mainstream selection these days, movies I consider junky, if the slick, animated, comic booky posters are anything to go by. Robin Hood, with the crux of the story removed, The A Team, but updated and crude-looking, Sex In The City 2, oh yay, or swashbuckler, The Prince Of Persia, based on a videogame. Honestly. Why step out the door for any of this hard-edged, unsubtle and computer-generated entertainment? No thanks. Sadly, one has to travel miles for 'proper films'such as The Last Station or Coco Chanel and Igor Stravinsky. It used to be vice-versa, the adults had the pick of the decent, worthwhile and lasting stuff, while the jaded, comic book, action-packed but drama-light fare was kept for the holidays only. Thank goodness for the invention of the VCR and DVD machine, or the choice would be appalling indeed. Still, it would be nice to be able to zoom down to the local multiplex and have an adult, subtle, stand-the-test of time, reflect real-life, novel and play based cinema. Oh, how I wish! The film posters of yesteryear were great, beautifully drawn and subtle, with soft colours and designs aptly depicitng the films they advertised; these days it's either just a photograph still or glossy, computerised hard-edged graphics. Are we seeing a plethora of wasted opportunities and plasicated junk that will fail the test of time? I wonder.The invention of VHS really did change cinema for ever, but not for the better, in my view!

2010-06-11T02:41:00.000-07:00

Another stunning work my Judy Millar, born 1957. She works in Germany and Auckland and is world renowned. Her works breaks boundaries and breaks-down taboos. This work is quite sculptural and graphic in nature. I have chosen these works here and as below as I feel they tie-in with the five-week painting module I have just completed. Using colour and placement, light and effect, and different media. I started out with painting still-life and ended up with quite abstract works, which I intend to post on here soon.

footnote: Judy Millar Web

'Framed' - an exhibition of sublime painters in cyberspace!

2010-06-10T23:46:00.000-07:00

This is by the wonderful Henri Matisse, master of colour and placement. This work has a harmonious effect and the blue and pink off-set each other. What I have taken from Matisse is to tone down the colours in my own painting, and to play around with placement and various objects. There is a look of cubism to this work and like a great symphony, it just works as one, the overall effect is great.

Judy Millar, NZ artist, outstanding

2010-06-10T21:28:00.000-07:00

Acrylic and oil on canvas by Judy Millar. This is a very contemporary work, which is bold and beautiful. The paint looks to be piled on. The intent is to push the boundaries and achieve something new, perhaps. It is three dimensional to look at,and reminds me of super highways. The work is quite sculptural in feel and is unforgetable and effective.

footnote judymillarartsite

2010-06-10T21:02:00.000-07:00

Harmony in Yellow, by Henri Matisse. The content of this painting is still life and pattern, with the artist using base colours and interposing black against yellow paint. There is quite a lot of pattern in this depiction, and the emphasis is on the bottle, plate, glass and cup. These are rendered in white, grey and blue and stand out against the highly coloured background.

footnote: Henri Mattisse prints.com

A gorgeous Biblical work...

2010-06-10T20:45:00.000-07:00

The Ascension to Heaven by . This is included as it is a theme I'm interested in, and something I had a go at, but in a modern style. Definately a painting which tells a story. This would fit into the context of religious art and figure painting. It is rich in detail and colour, yet has almost a washed out feel.

2010-06-10T20:37:00.000-07:00

This painting by Matisse is entilted The Music...Although it features people, it is still about placement and colour. The form of the painting is just that; placement, colour, tone, balance. It is a picture which tells a story and is rendered with great confidence. It is done with mixed media. I enjoy the pastel look to it and the warmth of the shades. Matisse painted right till the end of his life and was an expert with colour and form.

Paul Cezanne, fruit

2010-06-10T20:30:00.000-07:00

This is a still life painting by the impressionist painter Paul Cezanne. I have included this work in my show as it ties in with the still-life theme I chose to work with during my five-week painting module. I enjoy the rich, warm colours in this painting, and the confidence of the brush. The subdued background works nicely, and it is almost a tonal painting in colour. The method of the work is oil paint on canvas, with the fruit being outlined in black or brown. The painting is rendered in an impressionistic style, and Cezanne also was interested in fruit as shapes. This almost has a watercolour feel to it, the paint is used as a wash.

2010-06-10T17:22:00.001-07:00

Another stained-glass window lookalike.

Superstition

2010-06-10T16:37:00.000-07:00

Like a stained-glass window, this is a stunning work. Once again, I love the positive beauty of it, the soft hues, the lightness of the work, the life-affirming theme.

Simply entitled Hope...

2010-06-10T16:16:00.000-07:00

Simply entitled Hope, this speaks for itself...

2010-06-10T16:13:00.000-07:00

This work has a graphic look to it, cartoon-like, and the theme of the skull is still there, intertwined with a myriad of bold and undiluted colours. Loud and brash, but stunning.

2010-06-10T16:09:00.001-07:00

I love this picture. This is made from real butterflies, and was made with the help of assitants (as is often the case, similar to how Andy Warhol worked with The Factory). This is a life-affirming work, and the series was based on some of the Psalms, a lovely idea. I like the intricate details, the superb use of colours, the enlightened theme and the femininity to the work. It reminds me of stained glass windows (harking back to a religious theme) as well as antique doilies. Painstaking and gorgeous, wouldn't you just love to own this?

Francis Bacon, one of Damien's mentors

2010-06-10T16:02:00.000-07:00

I have included this work by esteemed artist Francis Bacon as Bacon's work is admired by Hirst, and nilhistic themes of death, decay, squalor. I love the expressive use of colour here. The content of the work is stated as above, the context fits into the canon of the post modernist painters, and expressionism, the form is paint on canvas

An interesting statement

2010-06-10T15:49:00.001-07:00

This is a controversial work by installation artist, Damien Hirst. The contexts are controversial art, Hirst headed the Young Brits movement, modern day life, ánything goes, the content is instillation art, a dead object placed in liquid, the intent is perhaps to add shock value. It is an interesting piece of work, exploring yet more themes of death and decay.

Damien Hirst's installation art

2010-06-10T15:48:00.000-07:00

Damien's own work at the Tate Gallery, no helpers involved, slammed by the critics.

yet another dotty painting by the master

2010-06-10T15:45:00.000-07:00

This one is subtle and interesting

one of the dot paintings?

2010-06-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

I love the colours in this one, and the quirkiness of it too.

Damien's 'Blue' period

2010-06-10T15:39:00.000-07:00

How fun is this?

Wow! Damien HIrst! Infamous and famous!

2010-06-10T15:29:00.000-07:00

This is Damien HIrst's most infamous artwork to date, the 50,000,000 pound diamond skull. Adorned with real life blood diamonds sourced from Africa, the skull itself is life-sized and was purchased by the artist himself. It is entitled 'For the love of God'a name derived from the artist's own mother, who asked him, 'for the love of God, what are you going to do next?.

Print to Paint, paint, paint, paint...a selection of my own art work

2010-06-09T00:54:00.000-07:00

Home By Christmas, a film by Gaylene Preston

2010-06-07T21:03:00.000-07:00

This is a documentary style film, and features the director's own father, who speaks directly to the camera. He talks about his experience of World War 2, having enlisted after just getting married. This is interlaced with real life World War 2 footage, which works nicely. There is some back story about Ed Preston's wife and first child, who have to endure three years without him, wondering all the time if he's alright. The handling of the direction is very deft and I like the fact that the director lets herself be in some shots as well. A beautifully lit film, with the cinemaphotographer being Alun Bollinger (of the sublime Heavenly Creatures) fame, so I would expect no less. Well worth a second serve, Home By Christmas makes for insightful fare creamy, unstodgy fare. Other films I've enjoyed by Gaylene Preston have been Bread and Roses and Mr Wrong, both somewhat forgotten, but gems all the same. Mr Wrong is based on a delghtfully spooky short story by the talented writer, Elizabeth Jane Howard. The setting for the film is moved from London to Wellington, with the haunted car being a used Jaguar, rather than an used MG (as in the short story), giviing Preston's take on Elizabeth Jane Howard's story a lovely Kiwi flavour. The overall feel of the film is darkly humorous as well as enticingly spooky, and the quirkiness is a nice touch.

Art Art, Blog Blog, by Tanya Tanya, fruity fruit, loose and fast.

2010-06-03T16:17:00.000-07:00

Turbulent by Shirin Neshat, as per post below, re lecture notes,

2010-06-02T17:38:00.000-07:00

Notes as below, this was viewed in our Lecture just gone, Art and Identity, gender, feminist art, the role of politics, minorities, men, women in art.

notes from Lecture just gone Art and Identity, women, politics, minorities

2010-06-02T17:16:00.000-07:00

The lecture was on art and identity, gender roles in art, women in art, feminist art, politics in art, gender issues, minorities...We looked at the art of Chris Ofili, ...the Youtube Turbulent by Shirin Neshat and discussed this. This work by Shirin Neshat shows an Iranian man singing to a packed audience, as opposed to an Iranian woman singing to an empty theatre. The male singer has an audience, and is fully visible the female singer none, and can't be seen properly.this represents inequality for women, and barriers for women in the art world, especially in a country such as Iran. See the Youtube clip above.

De-Facebooked, and lovin' it

2010-05-29T00:51:00.000-07:00

After having a bit of a love affair with Facebook for quite some time, I've decided it's static, very one-way (especially those pages belonging to celebrities or politicians) and a good way to waste a great deal of time. What is the point of having a load of ''friends' whom you have never actually met. and really know nothing about? Also, it's a good trap into writing inane comments, and meaningless garble. Social networking is just not as much fun, nor as real as chatting over a glass of wine, where one can read facial expressions and have a real laugh, right here, right now, hopefully! Real time in real life, spending time with family and friends, how golden is that? As for blogging, now, that's a whole different story...!

Notes from Lecture Monday just gone, viewing of Vincent Ward's Vigil, context and content

2010-05-27T18:40:00.000-07:00

Most of the lecture was spent viewing Vincent Ward's 1983 film Vigil, where we had to look and take notes of the context of the film. It's rural, farm-based, NZ set, isolated, the early eighities, could be compared to the work of Colin McCahon, he painted dark, interesting, textural landscapes. Vigil is comparable to another Kiwi film of the same era, Smash Palace, in its themes of relationshiips (and the breaking down of these), plus isolation, ruralness, and bleak, but beautiful NZ scenery The content of Vigil was family, relationships, isolation, poverty, a broken-down farm, fear, lonlieness, bleakness, death....heavy going, but interesting, a film full of visual and unspoken metaphors. Vincent Ward is also famous for The Navigator, and was one of the first Kiwi film-makers to put NZ on the art-film map and the world stage, NZ started to become well-known in the eighties, for various reasons, I'm thinking the Nuclear Free issue, our politics, our dark films, our.isolated beauty, the edge of the world., Kiwi ingenuity.... excellent.marketing....all these things, plus lots more, it's as though the country suddenly grew up, and found a huge and sparkling confidence...

My "Monument" still in progress, a statement on NZ film and Kiwi politics, fantasy and fiction.

2010-05-26T22:40:00.000-07:00

In our new Brief we have to create a monument, it can be anything we wish, but must be three dimensional, and it should communicate our statement behind the work. Hmm. This is quite a cool challenge. Having more than a passing interest in NZ politics, as well as iconic NZ films, I have decided to incorporate these two themes. The photo shows just the incubus of my idea, and I'm still working on it. I quite enjoy reading Ian Wishart's Investigate magazine (as it goes where the main stream media does not), so I might incorporate this somehow. The crux of my monument is really about our Government not listening to the people, and at times, blatatnly not listening, despite hard evidence. This is still a work in progress, the photo is not very clear, but the DVD cover is attached to a coat hanger. I love the dark political themes which run through many Kiwi films, especially those made in the '70's and '80's. Geoff Murphy's The Quiet Earth is another cracker, as is Jane Campion's An Angel At my Table and Peter Jackson's Heavenly Creatures...also Vigil, by Vincent Ward...such inspiration, such deep, dark contexts, such isolation...reflecting NZ and its place in the world, well, in part., that is...

Is it electric, Mum? A Saturday afternoon visit to Motat.

2010-05-26T22:35:00.000-07:00

We visited Motat (my two sons and I, that is), on a showery day just recently, it was cold and windy, so we spent most of our time indoors. There was plenty to see and do, and the kids really enjoyed the 'hands-on' experience of it all, as well as the tram ride to Motat 2. There was quite a crowd, and it now seems to be a popular venue for themed birthday parties (at Motat One), of which there were quite a few in progress. Not a bad way to spend a wet afternoon, despite the cold, damp conditions. Thanks Motat, great for no charge to Waitakere residents as well, (during the month of May) nice to see our Rates money coming back to us. Motat Two is quite interesting, enjoyed all the war planes on view., and the Melbourne tram is great...now, that brings back awesome holiday memories.. time to head back over...I wish, ha ha. Well, dreams are free, even if holidays are not!

Damien Hirst £50m Diamond Skull

2010-05-18T19:33:00.000-07:00