Mataaho Collective Kiko Moana

I am transported to childhood summers spent at Muriwai Beach. My adventurous siblings and I would relish the fear and excitement as relentless waves crashed over our small bodies. We were comforted by the deep knowing that we were connected to the vastness and power of Tangaroa.

Mataaho’s glossy, watery work is unapologetic in its grandeur – like waves in the ocean crashing with the waxing and waning of the moon. The ambition of the collective becomes more apparent as I move around the flowing fabric. I want to jump in, to be immersed in its depth like an epic body of water.

I move closer to take in the strength of the woven blue surface. More childhood memories flood my mind – magical days spent on the river bend of Mangaokewa. Like this work, our taniwha demanded attention and respect. We would mihi to our taniwha before jumping into the rapids. We would embellish stories to ensure our friends knew how important our taniwha was in keeping us safe, teaching us the power of nature. Kids squealing, adrenaline racing, spirits soaring – part of the awa, part of nature.

Ko au te awa, ko te awa ko au. I am the river, and the river is me.

Mataaho are fearless in their collective storytelling, which touches the hearts and minds of the observer, guiding us to deepen our connection with te taiao.