Ngā Pou Mārama is a sculptural light installation made up of three carved wooden pou, each standing tall and purposeful. These pou serve as beacons of knowledge and connection, exploring the dynamic relationship between man, woman, and mātauranga Māori through a contemporary lens.

Set into each pou are panels of 10mm clear acrylic, meticulously etched with Māori designs. These designs—rebated seamlessly into the timber—glow with life as LED lighting embedded within the framework illuminates them. The light pulses and flows in a programmed sequence, shifting colour and rhythm to reflect the ever-changing world we inhabit—diverse, complex, and full of movement.

Each pou is anchored by a weighted wooden base, providing both stability and housing for the integrated power supply and recharging components. The result is a clean, modern form that honours traditional storytelling and design, while embracing the innovation of modern technology.

Together, the three pou stand as guardians of light and knowledge—Ngā Pou Mārama—bridging the ancient with the contemporary, and illuminating the enduring strength of whakapapa, balance, and understanding

Artist Bio

I am a Contemporary Māori Artist, born and raised in Te Whanganui-a-Tara and now based in Tauranga. With over 25 years in the building industry, my creative journey has always run parallel to my profession, driven by a deep passion for Contemporary Māori Art.

My work is inspired by the visual language of both ancient and modern Māori art forms, woven together with a strong connection to te taiao—the natural world. I draw on the practical skills and material knowledge gained through my building career, incorporating them into my artistic practice. This hands-on approach allows me to explore new materials and methods, bringing form to concepts rooted in whakapapa, whenua, and our evolving identities.

Problem-solving is at the heart of my creative process. I embrace the challenges that come with developing new works, constantly pushing boundaries and exploring ways to connect the traditional with the contemporary.

My goal as an artist is to create works that not only bring joy but also invite reflection—encouraging deeper thought about our relationships with each other and with the environment around us.