TWO artists have been busy weaving the lessons of the past into hopes for a brighter future at the Footscray Community Arts Centre.
Maori weaver Shona Te Hau and Niuean-born artist Kui Taukilo’s joint exhibition, New Way — Te Ao Hurihuri, will be a highlight of this weekend’s Contemporary Pacific Arts Festival.
Te Hau says Te Ao Hurihuri is a Maori expression meaning “the ever-changing world”, reflecting the use of ancient techniques for playful modern creations such as teacups and teapots.
“We are spiritually, mentally and physically affected by weaving,” Te Hau said. “We’re following traditions but changing what we do with them.”
Taukilo says: “I’ve always been a weaver; it’s the most important part of our culture, it brings people together. We make mats, baskets, everything out of weaving. It’s very good for your mind.”
The pair have been weaving in the Gabriel Gallery studio ahead of the exhibition and festival workshops.
Developed by the Footscray Community Arts Centre and the Big Island Collective, the festival, which is on Friday and Saturday, will feature exhibitions, workshops, film screenings, a community concert and forums.
A free community day from 11am-4pm Saturday will feature artists, dance, crafts and food stalls. The festival will start with a te karangatahi waka — a 12-metre traditionally carved Maori canoe — being rowed up the Maribyrnong River by 20 Maori warriors. Details: footscrayarts.com
— Benjamin Millar
