Art Deco Light Boxes

Commissioned for the Hawke’s Bay Light Show, this project pays homage to the Māori artwork that emerged during the art deco rebuild of Napier after the 1931 earthquake. Acknowledging the creative visionaries that shaped Napier’s distinct identity, the light boxes serve as a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage and a reminder of the transformative role art plays in defining a community.

The Work

In collaboration with Auckland-based company Critical, panels made from 100% recycled ocean plastic were carved using innovative technology, adding another dimension and depth of meaning to the artwork. Merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary materials, the light boxes not only illuminate the region’s history through powerful storytelling, but also raises awareness of sustainability issues and the urgency of environmental stewardship.

Today, the light boxes inspire conversation about the region’s past and future. The fusion of art, new technologies and environmental activism carves a pathway for indigenous narratives to be heard alongside inventive solutions for land preservation.