Artist Gwil takes over Hīnātore | Learning Lab’s wall

Watch Hīnātore's wall come to life thanks to a vibrant illustration by Wellington artist Gwil.

We commissioned Wellington-based artist Gwilym Devey (aka Gwil) to paint a wall illustration that brings Hīnātore and what our learning programmes are all about to life.

The artwork spans oceans and forests and even into space, and features tuatara, kiwi, and a morepork – if you can spot it.

'Transformation is a key,' says Gwil of the illustration's theme.

Hīnātore is our brand new learning lab, and is equipped with a VR (Virtual Reality) studio, 3D printers, 3D scanners, touch tables, and telepresence technologies that enable learners to connect in real time with learners around the globe.

Te Papa’s collections, exhibitions, and taonga are at the heart of Hīnātore’s learning programmes, allowing learners to experience anything from voyaging the Pacific in vaka, to creating digital art in an immersive world.

Learn more about Hīnātore | Learning Lab

Gwil has been drawing ‘since I was old enough to pick up a pencil’, and took early inspiration from cartoons Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Dragon Ball Z, as well as the ‘bold lines and colourful styles’ of graffiti. He has been painting for seven years, and his work can be seen on walls throughout New Zealand.

See more of Gwil's artworks

Hīnātore's Matt Richards, Gwil, Te Papa Chief Executive Rick Ellis, and Hīnātore's Miri Young in front of the wall illustration, 2017. Te Papa

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