Robyn Kahukiwa
b. 1938
3 Artworks
Robyn Kahukiwa (Ngāti Porou, Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti, Ngāti Hau, Ngāti Konohi, Te Whānau-a-Ruataupare, Te Whānau-a-Te Aotawarirangi) (b.1938) is one of one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s foremost Māori women artists living today. In her work she aims to give Māori an accessible, contemporary reflection of their culture.
Her work often deals with themes of colonialism and the dispossession of indigenous people, motherhood and blood-ties, social custom and mythology. She is a strong advocate for Māori rights and the mana of Māori women. In 2011, she was awarded with the Te Tohu Toi Kē Award from Te Waka Toi, the Māori arm of Creative New Zealand.
“Robyn Kahukiwa is considered an art icon and an international leader in indigenous art. She celebrates the values and strengths of Māori culture in powerfully spiritual depictions of life (wairua), women and children, myths and legends, and ancestors. Determined that her art remain accessible to all, she has published books and created a series of collectable prints.”
See also:
- Robyn Kahukiwa (Wikipedia page)
Robyn Kahukiwa (Ngāti Porou), ‘And Still are Warriors’ (1994), Massey University, Turitea Campus, Te Papa-i-oea Palmerston North
Images: Bronwyn Holloway-Smith, Public Art Heritage Aotearoa New Zealand, 2022
