Nga_Kaihanga_Uku

Nga Kaihanga Uku is a national organisation of Maori clay workers, begun in 1986.  The ‘First Light’ 007 convention workshops will be conducted by  these five well-known clay artists who draw heavily from their culture to create their work.

Manos Nathan has placed much of his work within the framework of his tribe’s customary practices, while Baye Riddell’s work embraces both Maori and Christian beliefs.
 
Colleen Urlich and Paerau Corneal draw on powerful female figures in Maori creation stories. Colleen’s journey has also taken her back to the clay work of the ancient Pacific Lapita culture, while Paerau has developed strong abstract forms.
 
In Wi Taepa’s work, innovative design is combined with customary Maori and Polynesian forms.

These five artists came together sharing a desire to make works in clay based on kaupapa Maori (fundamental Maori principals). The artists have been supported by their elders, as well as other potters and artists, both Maori and Pakeha. Additionally they have engaged in cultural exchanges with other indigenous peoples who work in clay.
 
Maori had no tradition of clay as a medium for their art, so Nga Kaihanga Uku has developed a cooperative style of working and provided a network for sharing knowledge and skills.