Te-Kupenga-a-Taramainuku by Hamiora Renata
Mixed Media on A1 Fabriano Artist Paper, framed.
Renata uses pencil and paint to retell the siege of Te Teko Pah in 1865 which was experienced by the people of Ngati Awa. According to Ngati Awa, people who have passed on are gathered by the kupenga (net) of Taramainuku’s waka (vessel) which are constellations in the night sky. Renata uses customary designs and forms like kōwhaiwhai and specifically pitau in traditional Ngati Awa style as well as text, abstract form and colour to represent the deaths that occured during this period of time and the ancestors of Ngati Awa living on amongst the stars.