Koru, 1 -3 (Full size) by Colin McCahon

Fine Art Print

Image size in millimetres: 1100 x 515

This superb quality print of Colin McCahon’s monochromatic white on black painting “Koru 1 - 3” is one of a newly released series of very large format giclee prints - for the first time these individually printed prints are being made to the exact original size of these famous NZ paintings. By 1965, when this painting was completed, Colin McCahon was becoming increasingly interested in Maori culture, and exploring the use of numerals as forms and symbols in his art. Here, he combines these two interests, giving the numerals the frond-like forms of the koru – (the spiral motif found in Maori art). Like so much of McCahon’s work, Koru, 1, 2, 3 is also underpinned by Christian ideas. The three-part painting refers to the Trinity – God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Other connections are suggested too. The embryo-like forms of the last two panels evoke the beginning of life. The lines that link them hint at a pathway or journey – a recurring image in McCahon’s art.