Awatea Rikirangi-Thomas

Toi Tū

This design project offers a profound exploration of Māori culture and history in the context of Aotearoa, New Zealand, navigating the complexities of integrating a Māori perspective into a predominantly Western educational framework. It underscores the resilience of Māori traditions and narratives in the face of colonisation, emphasising the importance of oral history and visual language in conveying the essence of Māori culture. By re-indigenising knowledge and crafting an artefact that intricately weaves elements of traditional storytelling, materiality, and indigenous design principles, the project successfully bridges the gap between heritage and innovation. This work stands not only as a remarkable achievement in its own right but also as a stepping stone toward a future filled with culturally rich and authentic design that celebrates and preserves the profound legacy of Māori culture and history in Aotearoa, New Zealand.