Acknowledgements

In this space, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the many people and organisations that have shaped me into the person I am today. Every opportunity, conversation, act of generosity, and word of encouragement has contributed to my journey as an emerging artist and aspiring architect.

Dianne Bow
My mother and my longest supporter. She laid the foundations that enabled me to become an ambitious aspiring architect and emerging artist, and I cannot thank her enough for her unwavering generosity, encouragement, and thoughtfulness throughout my development. She has stood by me through times of uncertainty, celebrated moments of success, and embraced new experiences alongside me in places I never imagined I would have the opportunity to be.

Auckland Grammar Foundation
During my time studying Fine Art at Auckland Grammar School, the Auckland Grammar Foundation, together with my teachers and the wider Grammar art community, gave me the opportunity to exhibit and sell my work in a professional setting. Those early experiences opened many doors that have shaped my career, and I remain incredibly grateful to the Grammar community for continuing to foster the arts through initiatives such as the biannual Art House Tour.

King's Trust Aotearoa
Formerly known as The Prince's Trust, King's Trust Aotearoa provided me with the opportunity to grow what began as a passionate art hobby into a creative enterprise. Along the way, I met many inspiring young artists and benefited from an incredibly generous network of mentors who helped transform my approach to art from playful experimentation into a committed professional practice.

Zeayou Gallery
A special thank you to Di from Zeayou Gallery in Taupō, who has been a remarkable supporter throughout my development as an artist. Her openness, encouragement, and willingness to share practical advice about navigating the New Zealand art world have been invaluable, and I remain deeply appreciative of her generosity.

Art in the Park
To Cary, Sofija, and the entire Art in the Park team, thank you for providing an extraordinary platform that has introduced my work to thousands of visitors and collectors. More than an exhibition, Art in the Park has become a community that has played a significant role in my artistic development. To the organisers, volunteers, collectors, and fellow artists who make the event what it is today, you collectively make Eden Park feel like home.

Fo Guang Shan
My involvement with Fo Guang Shan, through the support of Venerable Abbess Manshin, Vicky, and many others, has given me new perspectives on how art can contribute to both community and personal growth. Through the teachings and practice of Humanistic Buddhism, I have discovered ideas that extend far beyond worldly concerns, shaping the way I think about creativity, architecture, and the responsibility of the artist. These experiences continue to influence both my artistic practice and my studies at the University of Auckland, as well as my experiences abroad.