Water is more than just a physical resource. It is an omnipresent force of life that connects all living things, it is the basis for our very existence, playing a vital role in the construction of our societies and their cultures.


Wishing well aims to illuminate the importance of sensory experience in understanding our environment; Focusing on the observable and experiential qualities of water bodies can induce an emotional connection not typically associated with common habitual uses of water.



Water is central to the mythologies of almost every culture. The use of sacred wells and holy waters can be traced back for thousands of years. Holy wells of the British Isles are said to contain water deities, spirits and supernatural forces. Still sacred to this day, they are visited for both healing and divination. For Māori, water is a living entity. All water bodies have their own mauri or life force. Waiora - the source of all things, is a term for the purist form of water; and also means health or complete well being.



The sacred treatment of water bodies reveals an intimate and emotional connection with local environments. Wishing Well offers a specific opportunity for engagement, different from but akin to the emotional connection with water experienced by these communities.