My name is Aimee Gruar. I am a multi-media artist based in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland). My work is often inspired by items I source from charity shops, Trade-me and curbsides.

My roots are firmly embedded in the land where I grew up. Pakiri beach is on the east coast of Te Ika-a-Māui (the North Island), where I spent endless hours beachcombing and exploring forest floors for the gifts nature generously offered up.

I feel that creativity is in my blood – my mother is the late Shirley Grace. She was a prolific artist, filmmaker, actress, photographer and teacher who left behind an abundance of creativity when she passed in 2000. My father was a cabinetmaker who used reclaimed native timber to produce beautiful furniture, and he continues to make breadboards, often using weatherboards from renovated villas.

My work often references birds. In particular, I enjoy keeping alive the memory of the now extinct Huia and their unique beauty. Last officially seen in 1907, I use their history to help raise awareness about the fragility of life, and the importance of protecting our precious native flora and fauna.

From my home studio I fashion Huia feathers from vintage fabric and lace, which I stitch together on the same Bernina sewing machine my mother used to make clothing for our whānau (family)

The feathers are available as single units, crossed together to form kisses, placed in sets of twelve as mandalas, and also as wearable brooches.

I have been creating record art since 2008 by repurposing old LPs into dramatic silhouettes of native birds. I also have a range of road sign art with words chosen to help people whimsically navigate their way through the adventure of life.

I have participated in a number of group shows, and my work sells in some of Aotearoa /New Zealand’s top art and design shops.