Project one: Kiribati Arts and Weavers Community
Tāmaki Paenga Hira has one of the best late 19th and early 20th century Kiribati collections, which is of key importance to local Kiribati makers. Initial discussions with the makers have been about accessing collections to study and learn older techniques, and to revitalise practices of making in the community. Click through to read updates from The Kiribati Arts and Weavers Community as they progress on their journey with Te Aho Mutunga Kore.
Project two: Solomon Islands Auckland Wantok Association
Auckland Museum has 7,029 records of Solomon Islands collection items. Initial conversations with the president of the Solomon Islands Wantok Association, Mrs Florie Dausebean indicates a project around the kuza string bags and personal adornments of the Solomons Islands. The outcomes of the project will include workshops for community and perhaps public demonstrations and written language resources for children.
Project three: Te Rā Ringa Raupa
Conversations have begun with the Northland Weavers who recently researched and created a full-sized replica of Te Rā, the only known Māori sail in the world, and now in the collection of the British Museum. The group are interested in looking at Auckland Museum's kākahu and whāriki collection, to inform research and to start producing kākahu/whāriki based on their findings.
Project four: Te Roopu Whatu Kakahu
Early discussions have started with weavers from Whitianga who are interested in the styles and techniques of kākahu and wish to draw upon the Museum’s collections to build knowledge and develop skills.
Project five: Taumata Māreikura
Participants in Te Awe Phase II and members of the Taumata Māreikura have expressed an interest in reviewing the completed work of Te Awe (Phase 2), and to progress further with the kaupapa, with intended outcomes including the establishment best practice storage models for whāriki (mats).
If you are part of a Māori or Pasifika community group who would like to be considered for participation in future Te Aho Mutunga Kore projects, we’d love to hear from you. Register your interest here and our team will be in touch.