Many of the photos we use on this website are supplied by graphic artist and electronic music producer RQ, AKA Ryan Quinlivan (Ngāti pākehā). Here we share a short story about his art, music and experiences of enhancing his well-being.
For over 20 years, Ryan has been observing the landscapes of Aotearoa and capturing their beauty through photography. He regularly uses such imagery and combines it with mix media to create album covers and flyers for electronic music artists. Ryan is also a drum & bass producer, having DJ’d for several years in 90s and contributing the wider dance music scene in Ōtautahi.
Now living in Ruapuke, Whāingaroa with his partner Katey (project overseer) and their tamariki, Ryan’s adolescent love for surfing has been rekindled. He says that surfing contributes positively to his mental well-being after years of feeling the negative impacts of crippling anxiety. The amazing vistas of moana Ruapuke and maunga Karioi provide endless inspiration to mindfully explore his art in diverse ways. Ryan recently discussed the relationship between his art and landscape in a interview that also includes snippets of his music https://djmag.com/content/fresh-kicks-101-rq. You can also check is music and art out on Soundcloud and Instagram.
We are thankful to draw our own inspiration from RQs works in connection to our kaupapa.
He Ture Kia Tika 