"Ancestral Watch" is more than an exhibition—it’s a spiritual journey. The birds in Haser’s work reflect his ancestral heritage, serving as gateways between this world and the afterlife. Known as “The Watchers,” they provide guidance and light, emphasising the importance of understanding our heritage and honouring where we come from as we navigate our future.
In July, we had the pleasure of hosting "Ancestral Watch," an exhibition by acclaimed Māori artist Kairau ‘Haser’ Bradley. This unique event included a week of live painting sessions where visitors could watch Haser create in real time, offering a rare glimpse into his artistic process. The exhibition, rich in cultural symbolism, featured figurative birds that represent Haser’s ancestral heritage, serving as a bridge between the physical world and the spiritual realm.
Alongside the exhibited works, Haser engaged in a week-long live painting session from July 8th to 12th, inviting visitors to experience his creative process firsthand. This was a rare opportunity for the community to meet the artist in his element and connect with the stories behind his art.
On the final day of the exhibition, we hosted a Coffee & Artist talk session with Haser, led by Dan Brown, General Manager of Allpress New Zealand. This intimate gathering allowed attendees to hear directly from Haser about his creative journey, the significance of his artwork, and the influences that have shaped his vibrant career.
How did you get into art?
I’ve always had an interest in art, inspired by my father, who was an artist. However, as a child, my curiosity pushed me beyond traditional landscapes and figurative paintings. Growing up in Auckland’s western suburbs, I found my passion in urban canvases. What began as writing my name on walls at the age of 10 evolved into a lifelong dedication to graffiti and a world of creative opportunities.
What were some exciting moments in your journey as an artist?
My journey in graffiti has opened many doors. It’s allowed me to travel internationally, collaborate with credible brands, and connect with like-minded artists around the globe. I’ve met and painted with almost every graffiti artist I’ve admired, and some of them have become close friends. Graffiti has been instrumental in helping me achieve my life aspirations—it has pushed me further than I ever imagined possible.
Tell us more about the artworks on display.
The artwork on display is my response to a higher power—the feeling that someone is always watching over you. The figurative birds in my work symbolize my ancestral heritage and act as a gateway between this world and the afterlife. These birds, or ‘The Watchers,’ have descended into the next life yet continue to hold a spiritual presence, guiding us in this life. This show emphasizes the significance of our heritage and the guidance of our ancestors as we move forward.
You mentioned your network in the hospitality industry. Can you tell us more?
In 2010, I began working with the team at BurgerFuel, starting with a bespoke mural in their Henderson store. This collaboration led to a role as an in-house designer, eventually becoming the lead designer and integrating a creative cultural pillar across their brand. My work in hospitality extended to designing for restaurants and creating murals for their spaces. I’ve collaborated with numerous brands, from Jagermeister and Red Bull to wineries like Mt Edward and Two Paddocks. These experiences have deepened my appreciation for the processes of harvesting, preparing, and cooking, which in turn has influenced my visual language.
What does creativity mean to you?
Creativity, to me, is an exploration of ideas and experiences—a visual language that allows us to communicate our interpretations. It’s an outlet, a way to channel and unload our thoughts, which can be therapeutic or torturous, but always an opportunity to exercise and expand our minds.
What do you do to keep your creativity going/inspiration?
I keep my creative routine simple to avoid overstimulation. I’ve always kept an artistic medium in hand, but five years ago, I committed to drawing every day to ensure a consistent practice. Since September 19th, 2019, I’ve completed a small drawing daily, accumulating 1,763 drawings across multiple journals. This effortless practice has been invaluable. Additionally, travel and networking with other artists fuel my creative process, offering new perspectives and ideas.
Tell us about your new project ‘Extra Dipping Sauce’— how did it start, and why?
I’m passionate about sharing and preserving knowledge. Artists from all disciplines carry a wealth of experience and wisdom. I wanted to create a platform for artists to share their stories and processes, not only to preserve this knowledge but to inspire and guide the next generation of artists. I’ve been working with BurgerFuel to grow their creative cultural pillar, which includes curating in-store murals and supporting the creative community. Our podcast, ‘Extra Dipping Sauce,’ is one way we do this, ensuring that valuable knowledge is retained and shared.
Lastly, what's your coffee ritual?
I drink more flat whites than I probably should, but I wouldn’t say I’m addicted to coffee—I don’t rely on it to get through my day. Instead, I use it as a ritual to ensure I take time to sit still. I rarely get takeaway coffee; I prefer to sit in a café, where I can fulfil my daily drawing practice and engage in other creative activities. So, if anything, I’m addicted to drawing, which is what influences my high coffee intake.
Haser Bio:
Kairau 'Haser' Bradley, a Māori artist of Ngāpuhi descent, is a leading figure in New Zealand's graffiti and street art scene. With over 20 years of experience, Haser has represented and exhibited his work internationally. His art reflects a lifetime of exploring the limits of graffiti, evolving into a post-graffiti narrative that tells stories of fear, love, and hope for a better world.
Find out more here.
