Kay Shibuya’s exhibition hopes to spread love and peace throughout the world, especially to war-torn areas.
Titled Love and Peace, Kay’s exhibition opens on Wednesday 29 July at 5 pm at Studio One Toi Tū and runs until 27 August.
Exhibiting at the gallery for the first time, Kay says it wasn’t something she had considered until Toi Ora Artist Liaison Joelle encouraged her to share her work and spread her message of love and peace more widely.
Using motifs such as cherry blossoms, moana, sky, sun, moon, and forest forms, her work reflects a deep connection to the natural world.
In this series, Kay holds Dubai, Lebanon, Ukraine and Iran in mind, creating each piece as a gesture of care and unity. Through soft, atmospheric mandalas and rainbow-infused colour, the works offer a sense of connection across distance.
Her paintings are prayers personified for love and peace.
“When I heard about the latest details of the war, my thoughts went to the people and the land affected. I felt I must do something, so I prayed and used painting’s power to send them out.”
Kay first came to Toi Ora during one of the darkest periods of her life, around 10 years ago. Today, creativity is an important part of her life.
“It’s given me strength and grounding. I feel free to express myself, and I’ve released something I didn’t even know I was holding.”
Kay began painting in her garage 15 years ago using the cheapest paint.
“My nurse Margaret and close friends were my only audience. I’ve got enough materials now to express and create something more. I can’t believe that I’m surrounded by my dreams. I’m very appreciative of my GP and Cornwall House for introducing me to Toi Ora.
“I am not alone on my journey, and that is the main release of my stress. Thank you Toi Ora!”
See Kay’s exhibition at Studio One Toi Tū, 30 July – 27 August
