Māori Design
Traditional Māori design is a rich, symbolic visual language rooted in Te Ao Māori (the Māori worldview), capturing whakapapa (lineage), storytelling, and connection to nature. Far from mere decoration, traditional Māori design elements serve as active historical records and spiritual markers.
My designs are not necessarily traditional but do follow one important aspect. They provide a message for those willing to learn, listen and share.
Use your voice
A personal māori design that may not follow traditional methods but comes from my heart. Also, an attempt to improve my composition to add more to my painting.
‘Use your voice’
A voice is a gift. Like the tūī carrying its song through the forest, we each have something uniquely our own to contribute to the world. Growth comes from listening, learning, and eventually having the courage to let that voice be heard.
Acrylic paint on canvas board. 410mm x 310mm
Tāne Mahuta
Te Wao Nui a Tāne — the great forest of Tāne.
Tāne Mahuta, atua of the forests and birds, separated his parents Ranginui (Sky Father) and Papatūānuku (Earth Mother), bringing light into the world.
This art work is inspired by Māori ideas of whakapapa, Tāne and the living forest.
Acrylic on canvas 510mm in diameter
Repeat Message
The pīwakawaka (also known as the New Zealand fantail) is one of Aotearoa New Zealand's most recognizable and beloved native birds. Belonging to the scientific genus Rhipidura fuliginosa, these tiny, energetic insectivores are famous for their acrobatic flight patterns and fearless curiosity around humans.
Spiritual Messenger: Depending on the iwi (tribe) and context, a pīwakawaka entering a home can be interpreted as a messenger from the spirit world. For some, it is seen as a warning or a sign of an impending death in the family; for others, it is viewed as a comforting visit from a deceased loved one or a protective guardian. The later being my preferred message.
Acrylic painting on Canvas - 405mm x 305mm