The Hidden Cove resulted from one of three research trips or residencies to Dusky Sound. Some works were painted in situ but much developed from study and continuing research. On the journeys I was accompanied by fellow artists including Robin White, Euan Macleod, Greogory O'Brien, Marilyn Webb and Simon Kaan. Luncheon Cove is both small and hidden and only accessible by canoe or inflatable.

Research conducted by the late Ian Smith of Otago University indicates that early Māori settlement in Dusky Sound consisted of a few scattered families. There was talk of a lost tribe and in this work I reimagine a gathering expressively rather than as a recreated history painting. In 2010 film titled The Waterfall, directed by Peta Carey recorded and examined one of the art project journeys. Nigel Brown