Ngā Atua ō Matariki

At the heart of Ngā Atua ō Matariki are nine twinkling portraits reimagining the Atua of Matariki through contemporary tinana mahi toi (face and body painting). Apex the Artist paints tangata whenua models to embody the strengths and characteristics of each star—these ephemeral creations are then captured and presented as photographs. Using tinana mahi toi the body becomes Apex the Artist’s canvas—honouring the living vessel formed from the earth by our Atua and refined over generations.

This Matariki season Pātaka celebrates the guiding star Pōhutawaka—keeper of remembrance. Ngā Atua ō Matariki is also in celebration of Apex the Artist’s late father Pitaarangaōtemahita Rongopai. Pita is currently on his journey on Te Waka o Rangi, with Matariki 2026 marking the completion of his journey. Visitors are invited to decorate their own star to place next to Pita’s portrait in the exhibition for him to take on his journey.

Image: Apex the Artist, Pōhutakawa, 2026