Māori arts celebrate lifetime contributions

Dunedin printmaker Marilynn Webb has been given the supreme award at this year’s Te Waka Toi Awards, presented at Te Papa in Wellington on Saturday.

Te Tohu Aroha mō Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu acknowledges her outstanding body of work over many years, including works which explore concepts of conservation, ecology, women in art, political issues and post-colonial history.

Artist and teacher Sandy Adsett won Te Tohu o Te Papa Tongarewa Rongomaraeroa for his outstanding contribution to Māori visual arts, which includes not only painting but carving, weaving, costume and stage design.

Tā Kingi Ihaka Awards for lifetime contributions to strengthening Māori art and culture went to three Christchurch residents:

Weaver Ranui Ngarimu, who is an expert in the techniques, natural fibres and materials her Ngāi Tahu ancestors used to make their protective clothing as they crossed the South Island’s mountain ranges; Children’s author and illustrator Gavin Bishop; and Tā Tipene O’Regan, for his work as an archivist and historian.

Also on the list were Kawerau-based master weaver Mere Walker, and Parekowhai Whaitiri from Gisborne, who has made a significant, life-time contribution to the preservation and maintenance of the art of piupiu.

Another Gisborne artist, Kuini Moehau Reedy, and Tā Pita Sharples from Auckland won Te Tohu Whakamanawa o Te Matatini Awards for their outstanding contributions to kapa haka.

Carver and sculptor Lyonel Grant received Te Tohu Toi Ke a Te Waka Toi for making a significant, positive impact on the development and practice of Māori arts.

Emerging artist awards went to filmmaker and playwright Isaac James Te Reina and painter Nerys Ngaruhe.

Follow us on &

Copyright © 2018, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com

RELATED NEWS

Iwi chairs feel Labour snub Minister holds off on passing Te Ture Whenua Bill … for now Treaty bills a tribute to elders