My daughter and I were lucky enough to see the May 2024 occurrence of the Aurora Australis from the edge of Lake Taupo.

What a stunning show from nature!

We don't need a once in a lifetime aurora to appreciate nature - it's around us every day. We just need to be open to seeing it.

I've always told my kids "Get your Big Eyes on" when we've been out and about but it equally applies to how we might approach business improvement or how we might understand the customer experience.

Put aside what you think might be happening.

Look to learn first and foremost.

Be curious - try seeing the world with Big Eyes!

While I love the tactile nature of working with paper and making large collaborative murals, the opportunities offered by digital design tools are incredible!

Collaboration, digital manipulation, reproduction, image longevity, ease of storage, sharing, and not least, the ability to evolve a change story over time.

This image is one of my hand drawn single flowers that has been formatted into a reoccurring pattern introducing the potential for wrapping paper, wallpapers, gift cards, book covers, even the printing of T-shirts, or company paraphernalia.

How might graphic design be useful to you, your team, or company?

In a world of constant commercialism and

consumerism we are at risk of losing connection with our own creativity.

Never underestimate the value to a loved one of receiving something made by hand. Something that's been crafted over time with thought and love for the recipient is invaluable.

Next time you're thinking of gifts, challenge yourself to explore your own creativity.

The premise here is fun. Simple, unplanned, get amongst it, prepare to get wet and muddy FUN!!

On sunny days my kids were outside in bare feet.

On rainy days they were outside in raincoats and maybe shoes.

No expense required. Use what's in front of you - be respectful of the environment, be respectful of others.

This mural came out of a 'World Cafe' conversation held in Tauranga not long after the horrific terrorist attack in Christchurch in March 2019.

The theme of the evening was 'As a community, how might we get to a better place of understanding?

Tables were set up and participants circulated in a type of speed dating arrangement, leaving their ideas at each table on post it's. It was a fun, heart warming, and thought provoking experience.

Participant feedback was extremely positive, sparking much ongoing conversation with people considering their own actions and influence.

A shameless plug for all pottery makers out there.

If you’ve never tried it - give it a go.

You will be amazed at how clever you are!