Pushing the boundaries of contemporary Maori art
Matariki Stars, origami paper taura created by Beth Gorst.
An Auckland gallery is celebrating Matariki in a "refreshing" way.
Helensville's Patiki Studio will display an array of glass and fibre poi in an exhibition owner Mei Hill said would be the first of its kind.
Hill, of Ngati Whatua descent, said the poi was an iconic symbol for Maori, an object once used for agility and weaponry.
Patiki Studio's Mei Hill said the exhibition will be the first of its kind.
"It's quite a powerful symbol. When there's important kaupapa to take place or when you are greeting or meeting people in a powhiri, it's so often that it is used," Hill said.
"Why not try to achieve that with glass?"
The exhibition, Poi Poi Poi, would display about 18 different poi made from blowing glass.
Herehere Nga Wa – Threading the Times. Taura weaved by Waratah Taogaga.
"They look beautiful. They look jewel-like."
Specialists glass blowers made that element of the poi, and a collaborative group came together to create different taura (the handle).
About 15 people contributed to creating the taura, including children.
Patiki Studio & Gallery is located at 3-2 Railway St, Helensville.
Hill said it was an opportunity to encourage creativity at a younger age and children had some great ideas "bubbling away".
A range of different materials were used to create the taura, including silk ribbon and origami paper, Hill said.
When it came to contemporary Maori art, this would be pushing the boundaries, she said.
Turquoise glass poi with wool taura created by 10-year-old Leah Martin from Waioneke School.
"It's a very ancient symbol to Maori but it's kind of viewed in a new light.
"They are unusual. They are unique. I just haven't seen anything like them. They are just beautiful to the eye."
Mei said she wanted to open up the conversation about poi and see what the public thought of them.
Poi Aho. Tania Remana created this taura made of yellow and clear fishing nylon.
The poi would be displayed on white walls in the gallery and were available to purchase for $350.
"I think they really will look beautiful because they are so individual. As a collective, they can look fantastic depending on how you install the taura."
She said it was important to give the exhibition the movement and rhythm a poi had.
The exhibit will open on June 17 and show "for quite some time" during the Matariki Festival.
The gallery was located at 3-2 Railway St, Helensville and was open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am-3pm. Viewings were also available by appointment.
The Matariki Festival commemorated Maori New Year and would begin on June 25 this year.
For more information, visit Patiki Studio's website.
- Stuff
