Overview
Cantabrian abstract artist Darryn George's latest series entitled Karakia (prayer) evolved, in part, as a personal response to Christchurch’s February earthquake in 2011. Consistent with his previous work, this series contain both letters and numerals and makes reference to his Christian faith and Nga Puhi heritage.
Like the neon signs that hang outside medical centres, block letters form words that are repeated throughout the compositions in Karakia. As if calling out in prayer, the words become signifiers of hope. Sometimes small as if whispered in the quiet, sometimes large scale as if screamed out in panic. The titles Rata (doctor), Kaitiaki (keeper), Manukura (leader) reiterate a kind of assurance and are biblical references to God (our Keeper (John 17.12), Leader (Isaiah 55.4), Doctor (Luke 4.23).
The moko designs behind the text are the beginnings of a new set of symbols within George’s works and also offer a religious interpretation. In some snowflakes or waterfalls indicate cleansing and renewal; while a rising star and the glowing effect around the text is a metaphor for Jesus as the light.
Photo caption: Atua (2011)