At the start of the year, the artwork was a blank canvas. The public could see the stone, meet the artist, and share what ‘Homeland’ meant to them, to feed into the design thinking.
In August, following various design hui and prototypes being presented by Leo, the stone was ready to be carved.
A ‘first-hit ceremony’ gathered Leo, Pasifika Festival’s Community Programme Advisor Karl Kite Rangi, the Wellington City Council City Events Team, members of the Pasifika Advisory Group, Councillors and Council staff, and representatives from The Learning Connexion to celebrate this momentous occasion, honouring the kaupapa, Leo, and his mahi.
This emotional and joyous evening opened with a prayer and mihi, and everyone present was able to carve a piece of the one-tonne block of Oamaru sandstone, before gathering to share kai, laughter and stories.
In 2025, the design of the carving (which will be fully revealed in 2026) will be partially complete and the public will be invited to talk to the artist about his process and make their own mark on the stone.
The final destination of the stone is yet to be confirmed, but it will be gifted to the community and displayed in a place of prominence in the city.
A special thanks goes to The Learning Connexion for providing a workshop space for Leo to work in.
Find out more about the Wellington Pasifika Festival here.
