Chantel Matthews: Matariki Owairoa
Matariki Māori New Year is a time to reflect on our past, remember loved ones, celebrate the present, and plan for the year ahead. It is a time to connect with our whānau and whenua and to care, prepare, and seek guidance from Te Taiao and our natural surroundings working towards Kaitiakitanga.
During kōrero with Whaea Taini from O Wairoa Marae and Pita Turei, stories were shared. From these exchanges, combined with the thoughtful symbols sourced and sketched by Briana Woolliams, concepts that Matariki represent began to take shape. This collaborative effort was the inspiration behind creating 4 Mythical Creatures. These creatures would be transformed into Matariki Kaitiaki/Guardians with the help of local tamariki from Owairoa and Mellons Bay Primary School, making this a truly community-driven project.
The children's drawings, etched into the cosmos of these creatures, are brought together as a galactic constellation. This transformation is not just a visual spectacle, but a testament to the children's imagination and creativity that transcends the boundaries of their classrooms. It encourages them to look up and beyond, fostering a sense of unity and connection while acknowledging the land, mana whenua and community. These creatures act as guardians from the sky, land and sea. That which we nourish, will nourish us in return – Chantel Matthews
To see more artwork by the Tamariki, walk to 61 Picton St (in the Wellington St carpark, on the back of the Howick Village Jewellers building) where their constellations are displayed in frames!
Artist: Chantel Matthews, Tamariki O Owairoa, Tamariki O Mellons Bay
Acknowledgments: Ngāi Tai Ki Tāmaki, Whaea Taini, Carla Ruka, O Wairoa Marae – Te Whare Wānanga O Wairoa, Pita Turei, Te Tuhi (Arts Out East) Briana Woolliams, Ashley Grogan.
To see the work by Tamariki O Mellons Bay, please click here.
For work by Tamariki O Owairoa, please click here.
I: @chantelmatthews
W: www.chantelmatthews.com/
Arts Out East is supported by Te Tuhi and Howick Local Board