Revolv – A creative space shaped by the ocean + land
WHERE OCEAN, LAND AND ART MEET
Nestled in the Far North of Aotearoa, Revolv is New Zealand’s northernmost art gallery + studios, where ocean, nature, and artistry merge. Founded by artists and environmental educators Jak and Aiyana, it was born from their passion for marine conservation and creative expression. Their backgrounds in marine science and environmental education shape Revolv’s mission—to inspire awareness through art. Returning to their roots, they turned to underwater photography, handcrafted woodwork, and wearable art as a way to tell stories of the sea. Revolv is a space to pause, reflect, and connect with the beauty of the natural world.
Meet Revolv’s artists
Jak – Capturing the depths, inspired by nature
A freediver, photographer, and wood artist, Jak has spent a lifetime exploring New Zealand’s waters. Growing up on the west coast at Muriwai Beach, he developed a deep connection with the ocean, spending holidays snorkeling in the Far North. After working in carpentry and set-building for film, his passion for freediving and underwater photography took hold. Over the years, his focus shifted from fishing to spearfishing, allowing him to observe the intricate underwater world up close. With a diploma in marine science, his understanding of the ocean informs his art—from stunning underwater photography to handcrafted wooden sculptures shaped by the tides. Now, he lives in a food forest with his wife and daughters, creating art, working the land, and playing in the ocean. Each piece he creates is a tribute to the mysteries of the ocean, designed to inspire awe and deepen our connection to the sea.
Aiyana – Adornment and nature connections
Born on Waiheke Island and raised in central Auckland, Aiyana has always been drawn to artistic expression. She holds a Visual Arts degree, specialising in life art and installation, with experience in fabric printing. After moving to the Far North to start a family on a thriving food forest—she deepened her connection to nature and creativity. With over a decade in environmental education.
Her jewellery and wearable art are an extension of this philosophy, blending natural and upcycled materials into meaningful adornments. She believes that by wearing art, one becomes part of its story—a living canvas of the natural world. Through handcrafted jewellery, screen-printed garments, and mixed-media pieces, Aiyana’s work honors the interplay between people, place, and the playful rhythms of the environment.
Exhibitions & Installations
Revolv is more than a gallery—it is a creative journey that extends beyond its walls. Jak and Aiyana are passionate about sharing their work in new spaces, bringing their unique blend of underwater photography, sculpture, woodwork, and wearable art to exhibitions and installations in other galleries. Their art is designed to be immersive, sparking a deeper connection between people, place, and the natural world. Whether through collaborative shows, traveling exhibits, or site-specific installations, they welcome opportunities to share their vision in new environments.
Playing in the Far North waters
'“Some of the most inspiring moments in my diving history that I have captured on video. These moments are etched into my memory as a reminder of the incredible wonders the we can find in our local waters.”
Jakson Stancich
