Gordon Kane at the time when he was the father of 5 children, attempted to provide a livelihood for his family. The results of his many detailed applications, tedious preparations, business planning and effortless “homework” performed towards each of his ideas resulted in the unsuccessful issuing of the necessary licenses which would enable him to provide for his family. The New Zealand Governments many clerical administrative staff, whilst designing the requirements for the granting of approvals for the new issue approvals of previously ‘never done before’ prevented the progress of Gordon. The lack of common-sense and over zealous ‘paper work’ of the government departments gave birth to the name Red Tape in New Zealand’s day to day language. During dinner one evening seated with his children, Gordon described his frustrations about his lack of progress and the unreasonable red tape he had encountered. Gordon suggested that the red tape he was encountering was similar to the greatness, strength and restriction to that of the Great Wall of China and his attempt he described as- “I might as well be throwing an egg against the Great Wall of China”
Daughter Rebecca replied “Well go paint it then”
So he did.The green grass in the foreground shows that the artist was not trying to enter ‘greener pastures’ for on the other side of the Great Wall shows no green land colouring. The energies of his efforts are illustrated by the explosive spreading the egg white. The embryo, coloured blue, inside the yolk of the egg, represents the artist, with his umbilical cord pointing up and over the wall, indicating directional intent.
The artist composed this work to suggest to others to AIM HIGHER above and beyond restrictions.

800mm x 600mm.

Oils on hardboard.

Private collection. Prints are available.

Contact Gordon for purchase.