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National | Arts

Toi Ngāpuhi to showcase world-class artwork

The Toi Ngāpuhi Māori Art Exhibition returns to Kaikohe this weekend and will showcase some of Ngāpuhi's finest Māori arts and artists.

Over 50 artists will be exhibiting their work across several mediums including clay, glass, fibre, photography, printing, prints and multi-media. All art work will be up for sale.

Exhibition curator, Rhonda Halliday says the success and recognition of Toi Ngāpuhi as a world-class exhibition has been a collective effort. She also acknowledges curators Colleen Waata-Urlich and Manos Nathan, who both passed away last year.

“As well as being such beautiful people, Colleen and Manos ensured that the ethos, culture and quality of artwork on display was exemplary and that the best of Ngāpuhi was represented.  The exhibition will therefore feature tributes to them both,” Halliday says.

This year's theme is 'Wahine Toa'. It is inspired by artist Maureen Lander and her work exhibited at the Alexander Turnbull Library of Hariata Rongo-daughter of Hongi Hika and wife of Hone Heke.

“Maureen's art draws on aspects of Hariata's attire, in particular her 'War Sash' and 'War Bonnet’, as well as Hariata's leadership and reputation as a warrior woman and strategist” shares Halliday.

This exhibition has become one of the high profile events at the Ngāpuhi Festival.

Acting Chair of Te Rūnanga-a-Iwi o Ngāpuhi says, “the artwork is simply stunning and it’s great to have Ngāpuhi artists exhibit at Ngāpuhi’s largest celebration of culture and arts.”

The official opening will take place at 6pm on Wednesday January 27 at Northland College in Kaikohe.