Kia ora koutou,
Thank you so much to everyone who has sent us their work for Toitoi 20. Despite the incredibly challenging circumstances under lockdown, we have had more submissions than ever – you have swapped your school desk for a spot at the kitchen table and your creativity knows no bounds.
Something has happened to me over the past few weeks and I wonder if it has happened to you too? I have found space and time from the usual business of life and rediscovered the joy of the deep quiet. I really love it there. I read and think and get lost in my thoughts. I follow my curiosity and discover what inspires me.
I am very lucky because my job is my passion. I started Toitoi because I believe strongly about the importance of looking you in the eye, showing you respect, and listening to what you have to say. When I am reading your work, I am constantly reminded of how open-hearted and deep-thinking you are. I try to listen as hard as I can so you can tell me what the journal should be.
One of the best things about working at Toitoi is that I am inspired by the perseverance and determination of young Kiwi creatives. People like Jillioneer Logan Simich-Burr who has followed his curiosity and discovered his passion. Logan’s art is playful, thoughtful and has an original point of view. It has been my great privilege to publish his work many times in the journal. You can meet him and fellow Jillioneer Manea Heeney on Toitoi TV. I hope they inspire you too.
Aroha nui,
