Artist reveals emotional journey behind cricket's Crowe-Thorpe Trophy

In New Zealand, the creation of the Crowe-Thorpe Trophy has emerged from a meaningful collaboration between artist Ngawati and New Zealand Cricket. This trophy was designed to commemorate the cricketing legacies of Martin Crowe and Graham Thorpe, both celebrated players known for their remarkable achievements on the field. The design process took a full month, beginning with initial discussions between Ngawati and New Zealand Cricket, followed by careful arrangements to acquire the specific pieces of willow bats used by both players during memorable matches. This involved communication with the families of the players, particularly Graham Thorpe's wife, amidst their grief, making the project all the more sensitive and emotional. Ngawati highlights the importance of family and community support that laid the foundation for the players' success, as reflected in the trophy's unique design, which symbolizes a mountain peak representing achievement while grounding it in personal history and heritage. The work itself was a deeply personal journey for Ngawati, who described his process of connecting with the materials and the stories behind them. He aimed to encapsulate more than just the sport; it was about honoring the bonds that helped elevate these players to their highest accomplishments. The artist's previous work includes the Tangiwai Shield, and he continues to engage in projects with Cricket New Zealand, bringing further depth to the relationship between art and sport in the country.