Visitors can marvel at the new exhibition on display in the Opus Gallery at Te Kōputu a te whanga a Toi—Whakatāne Library and Exhibition Centre. Inamata, Onamata, Anamata: our yesterday, our today, our tomorrow, which was officially opened last night, is a collaborative exhibition from two of New Zealand’s leading contemporary Māori artists, presenting new works inspired by the collection of the Whakatāne Museum and Research Centre.
Whakatāne District Council Exhibitions Coordinator Museum and Arts, Victoria Sinclair, says local artist Sarah Hudson (Ngāti Awa, Ngāi Tūhoe) and Hamilton-based Aimee Ratana (Ngāi Tūhoe) have created an exhibition which will truly engage its viewers. “The works on display provide viewers with an opportunity to connect with Māori narratives, as well as the District’s history and the objects that hold past, present and future meaning.”
Ms Sinclair says 18 new artworks are on display, with some of the works supported by objects from the Museum collection. “We’re fortunate to have a rich collection which includes Taonga Māori and native New Zealand bird specimens,” she says. “These offer the viewer insight into the artist’s motivation and creative processes behind these captivating photographs, videos and paintings.”
The exhibition runs until 30 August 2015 in Te Kōputu’s Opus Gallery. Complimentary exhibition catalogues are also available for all gallery visitors.