Tuna vs. Trout is a culmination of artist Elliot Mason's observations, reflections and responses to the relationship between tuna and trout.

Elliot employs painting, printmaking and wood carving practices to address themes of duality in his work: conflict and resolution, introduced and endemic species, tension and harmony, and nature and man. These provocations are explored through the double helix - an important motif used in Elliot’s work - which represents the intersection between the physical and spiritual, an ode to origin and identity.

Elliot has observed the Tuna and the Trout, researched their history, and seen them in combat with each other and amongst themselves. He has watched them feeding, caught and eaten them, and studied their form and behaviour. These observations have taken place on fishing trips throughout the North Island and at the edge of the Te Puna stream, an awa that runs through his family homestead.