The extraordinary artistic talent of a 14-year-old rangatahi with autism is being celebrated at the Papakura Art Gallery, highlighting the importance of recognising the strengths and creativity of young people with takiwātanga.
Speaking to Radio Waatea, Haley Te Rupe (Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, Tūwharetoa, Maniapoto) shared the story behind Mosese Inoke, whose artwork is now on public display, and the wider kaupapa of supporting rangatahi with autism to thrive in their own unique ways.
The exhibition showcases Mosese’s remarkable artistic ability, providing a platform for his creativity while challenging common misconceptions about autism. His work has drawn admiration for its originality, attention to detail and expressive style, demonstrating the diverse talents that often emerge when young people are given the opportunity to develop their passions.
Te Rupe says the exhibition is about far more than art. It is about recognising the potential of rangatahi with takiwātanga and ensuring they are seen for their strengths rather than the barriers they may face.
Within Te Ao Māori, the term takiwātanga is increasingly used in place of autism by many whānau and organisations. The word can be understood as “in their own time and space”, reflecting a strengths-based approach that recognises neurological difference rather than viewing autism solely through a medical lens.
Te Rupe says families often face challenges accessing appropriate support, services and understanding, particularly when navigating education, healthcare and community settings. She believes greater awareness is helping to shift attitudes, but says there is still work to do to ensure rangatahi with takiwātanga are fully included and supported to reach their potential.
Creative outlets such as visual art can provide important opportunities for self-expression, confidence and communication. For many autistic young people, art becomes a powerful way of sharing ideas, emotions and perspectives that may otherwise be difficult to express.
The exhibition also highlights the role of whānau and community in nurturing talent. Te Rupe says recognising and investing in the gifts of rangatahi strengthens not only individuals but the wider community, encouraging environments where diversity is celebrated rather than simply accommodated.
She hopes Mosese’s success will inspire other whānau raising tamariki with takiwātanga to embrace their children’s unique abilities and advocate for opportunities that allow those strengths to flourish.
As awareness of neurodiversity continues to grow across Aotearoa, initiatives such as the Papakura Art Gallery exhibition are helping to change perceptions, demonstrating that with the right support, rangatahi with takiwātanga can make extraordinary contributions to the arts, culture and society.
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