Who Preserves the Traditions of Maori Woodcarving Nowadays?

Image Source – An example of a modern-day version of the traditional Maori woodcarving

Happily, the art of Maori wood carving will keep on for as long as the traditions are being transmuted from the senior masters of woodcarving to the young and passionate generations.

For example, New Zealand’s Maori Arts and Craft Institute has announced free hours when visitors can also watch how the young trainees learn from the master woodcarvers in the art of Maori wood carving. That’s possible thanks to the National Wood Carving School (Te Wānanga Whakairo Rākau).

Nevertheless, it’s important to remember that the invaluable cultural inheritance of Maori arts splits into 4 directions, namely:

• Carving
• Weaving
• Painting
• Ta moko (or traditional Maori tattooing)

Getting their face tattooed was the path to maturity, as well as one of the spiritual paths for many Maori men

Name of the picture: Head of Otegoowgoow. Son of a New Zealand Chief, the curiously tataoued. Plate 21. From the book: A journal of a voyage to the South Seas, in his Majesty’s ship the Endeavour

Image Source

Carved guardian representing the Divine realm – Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve – Image Courtesy of Far Beyond Creative – Photography and Design – Source

Furthermore, it’s beautiful to see the Maori traditional arts being able to reach out to so many people globally with their deep meaning and pure blessing.

Paratene Matchitt

Te Wepu Assemblage by Paratene Matchitt exhibited at the University of Auckland Art Collection – Image Source

Born in Tokomaru bay East Cape in 1933, Paratene Matchitt is a descendant of the Whanau Apanui and Ngati Porou Maori tribes.

It wasn’t before 1957 that Paratene Matchitt became an art and craft adviser for the South Auckland Education Board.

Just several years later, Paratene Matchitt managed to build a solid reputation as one of the most important figures in contemporary Maori arts.

His talent is not solely limited to the ancient craft of traditional Maori carving. Instead, Matchitt was first known for his extremely expressive paintings.

He Ao Hotahi – vivid artwork by Paratene Matchitt – Image Source

One of the best mentors and friends of Matchitt with whom he shared a similar understanding over the contemporized interpretations of the traditional Maori arts was none other but Arnold Manaaki Wilson.

Untitled artwork from wood and metal by Paratene Matchitt – Image Source

Contemporary Maori artwork – amazing sculpture by Selwyn Muru – Image Source

Selwyn Muru has left an incredible legacy for generations of gifted Maori artists wishing to explore the path of cultural expression through their love for merging the traditional Maori arts and crafts with the spirit of the new century.

Conclusion

Maori whakairo stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the Maori people.

Through wood carvings, the Maori preserve their history, stories, and spiritual beliefs, connecting past and present generations.

The intricate designs, symbolism, and dedication to craftsmanship make Maori whakairo a unique and revered art form.

As we appreciate and understand the beauty and cultural significance of these carvings, we contribute to the preservation and celebration of Maori culture for generations to come.

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