Noa Blanket Co weave New Zealand wool blankets that share stories of identity, supporting intergenerational knowledge transmission.
These blankets have become a powerful symbol of cultural pride and an expression of reclaiming the style and fashion of our tīpuna. The quality of the product makes these a treasured heirloom, a modern taonga. The customary visual language evokes woven taniko on cloaks, each motif telling a part of the story.
The intentionality to details and creating a product out of New Zealand natural resources is why this inspired us.
Extended Whānau’s work for He Aka Ka Toro speaks to the narrative of a vine, growing and stretching as a metaphor for knowledge.
This work for MBIE’s Māori Science, Innovation & Technology fund conveys "a depth of energy that is both organic and scientific.” The innovative way light reflects through the koru motifs, brings a typically flat visual language into a new dimension, reminiscent of neural pathways of enlightenment and creativity.
We love how this demonstrates new ways to experience Māori visual language enhanced by modern artistic expression.
Created by Te Kahui Toi along with mana whenua and community co-design, Te Rau Kamaru Marae is an innovative expression of cultural storytelling. The wharenui expresses the roles of Tāne Whakapiripiri and Hinewaonui in the creation of Te Rakau Tipua - The Cosmic Tree. The spatial narrative speaks to the connection of all things. The tree forms the trunk (ridgepole), the branches (rafters) and the crowning canopy (exterior kauri). Te Tiriti o Waitangi is the central vertical pillar that upholds the space.
The narrative of the space is enhanced by architectural design techniques that produce an environment that lifts the spirit and mind into higher realms of enlightenment. The whare kai is a representation of Tangaroa and Hinemoana, connecting to the ocean as a source of food and hospitality. The lights that resonate on the metallic finish change as an expression of the breath of Tangaroa as the tide rises and falls. This is creativity at its highest expression.
We were inspired to see strong working coming through from our next generation of rangatahi creatives.
Sam Dunstall’s work, Te Papa noho-a-Kupe is a space derived from the papanoho, an observation deck from which a double hulled waka is navigated. It is a space to understand, interpret and imagine future directions for Ngāti Hinewaka.
Salem Mckay was a designer at Ira until his graduation from Media Design School. His work, Tuakiri | Beyond Skin explores our relationship with the whenua as a source of identity. The uku or clay is shaped and formed into an expression of identity.
Congratulations to all the finalists and winners for advancing New Zealand design at home and on the global stage. Ka rawe!
