It's what you make of it.

Exploring a Brazilian interpretation of the New Zealand “kiwi” lifestyle in his art, Artist and MDS Visual Effects and Motion Graphics student Mauricio Benega is exhibiting his current crop of work at the art Gallery Papakura (Auckland) from 11 June.

The exhibition is titled ‘De uma praia a outra Mauricio’ (From One beach to another). The beach is one of the main influences in Mauricio’s life, and most importantly, surf culture.  It inspires his art and his lifestyle which encompasses the kiwi culture in which he lives and also reminds him of his homeland Brazil.

Mauricio came to New Zealand from Brazil in 2002 for a holiday and “discovered that New Zealand was definitely the place that he wanted to live” he says. De uma praia a outra also means to change your daily situation, the place in which you live, the atmosphere, the tribe in which you belong. 

Being far from home and from your friends and family gives a new perspective on life. “All of these things have an important influence for what I am artistically  producing now” says Mauricio.  The phrase also explores the journey of making New Zealand his new home along with his art focus.

Recycled materials are a feature of these vibrant works. “I continually use abandoned or found objects in my art making.  In Brazil, we like to create new things from recycled products giving then a new concept and artistic value.”

Mauricio is also inspired by comics, cartoons, contemporary art, graffiti, typography and graphic design.  All of these elements can be seen in his work.