In 2017, Te Waka Pū Whenua Trust approached me to create a series of large illuminated Tiki for their Matariki celebrations. Inspired by the light festivals beginning to appear around New Zealand at the time, I wanted to create something that would bring people together during the longest nights of the year around the Solstice.
Drawing on my background in whakairo, I designed and hand-cut seven large Tiki from plywood. Each sculpture featured a layered design, hiding five metres of colour changing RGB LED lighting that slowly flowed through a beautiful spectrum of colours once darkness fell.
Designing the project was a challenge in itself. Every plywood sheet was carefully planned to maximise the material and minimise waste, combining creativity, craftsmanship and plenty of problem-solving! My children even helped paint the Tiki, making the project even more special.
Installed on the lawn outside the Ruapehu Community Arts Centre in Taumarunui for two weeks, the illuminated trail quickly became a gathering place for families and visitors on cold winter evenings.
It was a real privilege to work alongside Te Waka Pū Whenua Trust on this project. Looking back, it reminded me that art isn't just about creating objects, it's about creating experiences that bring people together. This was a really cool project to do!
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