About

 

 

 

Drawing and art has always been about discovery. As a small boy I would put things in front of me and draw them as a way to dissect, discover and understand my world. Over the years nothing has changed but the focus. 

Born in Gisborne, New Zealand, I grew up in small Maori communities on the East Coast. 

Late in life the passing of my mother Parekura, ignited a need to reconnect with culture through art.

With thousands of hours spent drawing but no formal training, I prefer realistic impressionism that has a strong narrative and makes a statement. 

 

Michael's Pepeha:

Ko Whakapunake te maunga
My mountain is called Whakapunake

Ko Ruakituri ko Hangaroa te awa
My rivers are the Ruakuturi & the Hangaroa

Ko Ngati Kahungunu nga iwi
My tribe is Kahungunu

Ko Ngati Hine Hika te hapu
My village sub-tribe people are called Hine Hika

Ko Hinekarako te tepua
My spirit guide is Hinekorako

Ko Michael Crowley toku ingoa
I am Michael Crowley

Tihei Mauri Ora
Breath of Life

 

Pepeha is a way of introducing oneself in Maori. It tells people who you are by sharing your connections with the people and places that are important to you.