KARAKA RAU "KIA Ū KI TŌ RANGATIRATANGA"

N.Z Karaka Rau  (Native N.Z Karaka tree leaves)

620mm x 445mm White Boxed  Frame

Mixed media, (collage, paint, pen, ink, acetone, cotton, resin) 

"KIA Ū KI TŌ RANGATIRATANGA" Hold onto your identity, self determination  and sovereignty

Mahi from Hihiaua exibition “Whakakahangia Te Wairua”

What strenghens us in these times?

Knowing who we are, what is true to our heart, and protecting and upholding mana motuhake for our future generationus.

The Karaka Tree is a living emblem of endurance. It is extreamly hardy, resilient and tolerant of a wide range of conditions without much ill effect. It can thrive in adverse conditions, coastal and shade, and has a robust root system. The fruit are bright orange and highly toxic but once they were treated by a process of boiling, soaking and drying, were once a significant food source. The rau (leaves) are a rongoa when made into a poultice which were then put  onto wounds because of their healing properties.

These Karaka rau were collected on our whenua from a very old tree alongside Whirinaki river not far from our whare. I see the connection as the ongoing need to fight for what you believe in and to continue to build resilience for yourself and your whanau to get through hard times.

These Rau are a reminder to stay true on your path and withstand adversisty while uphoding your most treasured  values.