Hinaki / Guardian

The work was conceived as a symbolic eel-trap (hinaki) but also suggests the form of a female figure or a classical vessel. Historically the tidal flats were abundant breeding grounds for eels, fish and shellfish. The sculpture passes through a circular hole in the wharf and reveals views of water below. Two engraved rings, like ripples in the water, encircle Hinaki. The text is from the poem Eel - by Fiona Farrell. In sunlight the sculpture casts strong linear shadows. In mist and sea fog, the form becomes a looming figure.