Pa Harakeke Exhibition

The latest exhibition in the Carlton Gallery, nestled within The Arts Junction in Katikati, coincides with Matariki and celebrates both art and the start of a new year for Māori.

Visitors to this unique exhibition will be treated to a fine exhibition of hand-woven harakeke (flax) artworks with kete (traditional basket), pōtae (hat), backpacks, and more on display.

The collaboration of local artists exhibiting include Marino Magee plus, Rangi Ranui, Rawinia Gray, Kerewai Wanakore, Annie Tauiwi, Janie Hemoata Wanakore Flavell, Katairaina Sydney and Anne Murphy of whom are master weavers to level four, through the Wānanga O Aotearoa based in Tauranga.

Weaving is not only useful, it is a living art form and a way of passing on Māori culture. For example, while the kete is used for collecting kai such as potatoes, kumera and pipi, it also represents a container of knowledge and wisdom.

Works in the exhibition are created with flax sourced from Katikati and the Tauranga Moana area or from the backyards of the artists. Once prepared by tools such as greenstone and dyed with the bark from the Tānekaha tree, today flax works are created with sharing combs and using other natural dyes.  Special flaxes recognised for their ability to extract white fibre (muka) are used to make handles and korowai (cloaks).

The gallery is open 7 days a week. 9am to 3pm on week days and 10am to 2pm over the weekend.

https://katikatiopenairart.co.nz/