Matariki Art Exhibition in Kūaotunu
This Matariki, three unapologetically Māori voices—Jason Tahatika, Roimata Taimana, and Walter Baker—bring bold, powerful new work to Kūaotunu in a special exhibition titled The Three Fried Bread and a Doughnut. Their creativity calls us to reflect, remember, and connect.
Through carving, painting, digital illustration, and pen-and-paper, the artists offer a deeply personal lens on what Matariki means to them and their communities. Visitors can expect a journey of light and shadow, whakapapa and whenua, loss and renewal—delivered with aroha and intention.
Coromind is proud to support and partner with the artists for this exhibition, helping share their voices and stories more widely across our rohe.
We had the chance to kōrero with the artists, who shared some of the thinking behind their pieces for the show.
Roimata Taimana says, “I’ll be bringing two pieces that express what I see Matariki to represent for me—the connection between the stars, the whenua, and us.” Raised without much exposure to these traditions, he describes the beauty of learning later in life.
“To understand what sits in the sky above year after year, and what it represents, reveals how our ancestors read the heavens.
It’s about new beginnings, the prospects of the year ahead, and acknowledging those who’ve passed.”
Jason Tahatika’s pieces focus on light—as symbol, story, and guide.
“Each work is a reminder that even in darkness, light shines through—helping us navigate the past, celebrate the present, and look forward with strength and unity.”
He adds, “Matariki brings people together to reflect, remember, and start again.
While I’m still learning the deeper meanings and traditions, each year I gain more understanding and respect for what it represents.”
Walter Baker, a Māori artist working across carving, digital art, and painting, shares:
“I will be bringing a range of different mediums within a te ao Māori view—from canvas to rākau.
Matariki means to me a time of celebration—yes, Māori New Year—but for myself, it’s also a time to be creative, with a window of past, present, and future. Matariki provides this space for me.”
Come join us to celebrate the spirit of Matariki through creativity and kōrero.
The Three Fried Bread and a Doughnut will be held at 1 Irishtown Road, Kūaotunu from 10am to 4pm on the 20th, 21st, and 22nd of June.
Opening night: Thursday, 19th June, 7pm.
Free entry – all welcome.
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