Our Brief - to create a laser cut piece that represents a leader from the Matawai rohe.
As a retired teacher, I was thrilled when Nick Adams, Principal of Matawai School, approached me at the Gizzy Monthly Markets. He was impressed by our laser-cut products and the stories behind our designs, including our recent studies in Māori Visual Arts and whakairo at Te Wananga o Aotearoa. Nick recognized how Sam had applied his carving knowledge to create digital designs from our laser cutter. He believed our skills could greatly benefit his Year 8 students, who had previously experienced carving. We agreed to deliver an 8-week program, consisting of six on-site sessions and two at our workshop in Ūawa. Despite some initial challenges, the program was a success, showcasing the students' engagement and enthusiasm. The finished wheku were fantastic, and the boys took immense pride in their work.
Mahaki
Lyem was the designer and creator of this piece.
As part of his design process, he chose to research Mahaki and presented his findings to us in a personally meaningful and informal manner.
Mahaki was a rangatira of the Matawai region who lived in the 1600s.
Wiremu Pere (Wi Pere)
Zion is the creator of this wheku. He dedicated himself to thorough research, spending considerable time reading and documenting his findings.
The ancestor he chose to study was Wiremu Pere, also known as Wi Pere, the only tipuna among the four studied who lived in the 1800s.
He was member of parliament and represented the eastern Māori in the House of Representatives.
Tamataipounoa
This wheku was created by Hunter, and represents Mahaki’s father, Tamtaipounoa.
Hunter stepped in to participate when one of the original Year 8 boys had to leave for a family trip overseas. As a quiet observer, Hunter worked diligently to complete the brief.
Tūtamure
Tūtamure, the brother of Tamataipounoa and Mahaki's uncle, was created by Shane. To remember who he studied, Shane humorously referred to Tūtamure as the "ugly" brother, explaining that Mahaki's mother preferred to marry his younger brother, Tamataipounoa, but Tūtamure insisted they could marry instead.
