I am often privileged to share in the amazing lives of people when asked to create a sculpture to remember them by.

In the case of John I was given a wonderful insight into who he was and what he meant to his family. We agreed the Manaia was a perfect representation.

The Manaia is one of the more ancient mythical beings and is said to be the messenger between the earthly world and the domain of the spirits. The Manaia holds great spiritual energy and is regarded as a kind, caring deity protecting people.

There are many different versions of the Manaia, my impression of the person I'm creating the sculpture for will influence my design.

After learning more about John I designed a Manaia that was unique, simple, robust, stylish, but no frills - just as John was described to me.

 

 

Brett Keno
New Zealand Stone Carving Artist and Sculptor
October 2014