Apr 6, 2016
2.4 Visual Text
Cliff Whiting’s highly intricate wood carving, featuring traditional kowhaiwhai and tukutuku patterns, is the foundation of the interior design of the National Library of New Zealand. The earthy hues of ochre, chestnut, and tidal of Te wehenga o Rangi raua ko depicts the story of Papatunuku and Ranginui, and their son Tane dividing the two lovers so that the light of knowledge enlightens the land. The organic and sweeping shapes suggest the movement of the myth, and contrast heavily with the surrounding sharp, geometric, modern décor. The commanding, yet beautiful, visual text is extremely memorable - I can safely say that I actually love the piece.