Barry Saunders’ new album ‘Far As The Eye Can See’ is much more than just music from one of New Zealand’s most iconic and lasting singer songwriters, it is a celebration of art as well.
 
14 New Zealand artists have interpreted the lyrics to each of Saunders’ songs in 14 very unique artworks. In reflecting on Saunders’ lyrics and music each artist has delved into his or her understanding of the songs with earnestness and heartfelt dedication.

From Brian Strong’s beautiful oil on canvas for ‘Bay of Blue’ to Bill Kearns’ surrealist digital photograph for ‘Black Eyed Girl’ to renowned figurative artist Marty Welch’s remarkable portrait of Saunders – this new and limited release brings the senses of sight and sound together in a unique and special way.

‘As Far As The Eye Can See’ is the inaugural release of The Music & Art Project, a project set up and run by GM of Native Tongue Music Publishing Jan Hellriegel and international art curator Ron Epskamp.

Responsible for bringing the recent international exhibition of Dr. Seuss artworks to NZ, Epskamp immediately saw potential for an amalgamation when Saunders mentioned he was thinking about creating the album.  Hand written lyrics were distributed to artists who Epskamp felt would have a connection with each individual song.  “The response from the artists was incredibly enthusiastic and surprisingly immediate,” he says.  “They each found this project challenging, fun and rewarding and I think that really shows in the end result.”

Hellriegel adds "Barry Saunders is one of New Zealand's most respected and dynamic songwriters. It is his music and words which have inspired each of the pieces in this Music & Art collection and the results are simply stunning.  We are all very excited about this collection and grateful to Ron Epskamp for his vision to put both Barry Saunders’ music and these talented artists together.  We consider Barry to be at the height of his song writing career and this project is further testament to his outstanding body of work and a small glimpse of songs to come”.

'As Far As The Eye Can See' can be viewed at the Lonely Dog Gallery