Robyn Kahukiwa: Tohunga Mahi Toi

Robyn Kahukiwa’s artworks have made a difference to Māori. They have provided not only beauty and strength but inroads into our mātauranga, and the multi-layered, inter-generational and ever-evolving stories that are part of our cultural landscape. That landscape is the mainstream of Aotearoa New Zealand. Robyn’s work takes us on circular routes through time, with Māori accounts given proper currency and weight. Her work has become an alternate visual rendering of Aotearoa’s history, through the lens of a Māori woman.

The title Tohunga Mahi Toi refers to Robyn’s status and expertise as an artist, valued here and internationally. It is a form of recognition. Robyn has spent all of her adult life as an artist, and one of great distinction. Like Keri Kaa, Irihapeti Ramsden and Moana Jackson, her dedication has been unwavering.

Let us acclaim Robyn Kahukiwa. Let us celebrate her art. Let us celebrate the weaving of whakapapa and whānau that she presents us, and entwined with that, always the raising of the wide-reaching capabilities of women. Let us celebrate her gift and her great determination.

– Roma Pōtiki (Te Aupōuri, Te Rarawa), exhibition curator.

Robyn Kahukiwa: Tohunga Mahi Toi is developed and toured by The New Zealand Portrait Gallery Te Pūkenga Whakaata, in partnership with Te Manawa Museum.  

Image: Robyn Kahukiwa, Hinetītama, 1980, Te Manawa Art Society & Te Manawa Museums Trust Collections, Palmerston North