Becoming the Sky - Gold & Light Series

The Journey of Becoming

The tūī is a bird of boldness, intelligence, and deep spiritual significance—a messenger between worlds and a symbol of transformation. In Echoes of the Tūī, I wanted to capture the different stages of stepping into one’s power, the internal dialogue we have with ourselves as we navigate the unknown.

Each tūī in this piece represents a different moment in the journey of life. The one in the foreground is grounded yet uncertain, pausing at a crossroads, wondering which path to take. It holds the energy of hesitation—knowing change is calling but not yet ready to leap. The middle tūī has taken the first steps, standing firm and looking toward the future with hope and newfound courage. And above them, the third tūī has embraced all facets of life, soaring freely, fully trusting the winds that carry it forward.

The interplay of deep blues and warm golds creates a liminal space, a realm of reflection and possibility. The soft glow of light suggests an unseen presence—a guiding force that is always there, even when the path ahead feels unclear.

In Māori tradition, the tūī is known for its ability to adapt and thrive, a bird that sings a song unlike any other. It reminds us that we all have our own rhythm, our own timing. Some of us are still gathering courage. Some are stepping forward. And some are already in flight. There is no right place to be—only the journey itself, unfolding as it should.

Part of my Gold & Light series, Echoes of the Tūī is an invitation to reflect: Where are you in your journey? Standing still? Taking a step? Or soaring with trust? Wherever you are, the tūī sings to remind you—you are exactly where you need to be.

This mixed-media painting is 30 x 40 inches.