Mohua

Mohua
Original Graphite Pencil Drawing

Size: 15 x 21cm (framed)
Medium: Graphite pencil on fine art paper
Time Spent: 3 hours
Framing: Framed (see pictures below, unframed available on request)
Availability: One‑of‑a‑kind original

Price: $150 NZD (shipping extra)

🌿 The Story Behind the Artwork

High in the moss-covered beech forests of Fiordland, a flicker of yellow catches the eye, the mohua, or yellowhead. Once common across the South Island, these small songbirds have become rare, their bright presence now a quiet treasure in the few untouched forests that remain.

In this graphite drawing, I wanted to capture a still moment, a single mohua perched on a mossy tree trunk, alert and delicate, yet full of life. The simple side profile lets the details shine: the soft feathers, the curve of its form, and the rich texture of the moss beneath its tiny claws.

The mohua’s story is one of resilience. Though they’ve faced great loss from habitat destruction and predators, they continue to hold on in the southern forests, a symbol of endurance and fragile beauty in a changing world.

This piece is my tribute to that quiet strength and to the native wildlife that continues to thrive, often unseen, in the hidden corners of Aotearoa.

🖋️ Signed original
📄 Includes a story insert and certificate of authenticity
📦 Shipping and framing are custom - please reach out to arrange delivery or request the unframed version.