From recycled corkscrews to visions of the stars - The Arts Village in Rotorua celebrates Matariki

From recycled corkscrews to visions of the stars -The Arts Village in Rotorua is creatively celebrating Matariki with their “Under the Stars” Exhibition.

Local Uku artist Kaeleb Ngatai says everyone has different interpretations of what Matariki is, but the awesome thing about this exhibition is seeing how creative people are.

Work by young local ringatoi and experienced professional artists are showcased in the form of Matariki and what it means to them.

Rotorua Local artist Jane Johnson-Matua expresses her identity as a wahine Māori through her recent artwork, Whanaungatanga.

She says working with corkscrews and other recyclable materials not only helps the environment, it's also bringing together the expression of who we are.

“This piece is actually having a bit of waiata. It's about bringing those voices together and being able to spread who we are as Māori.”

At the other end of the artistic scene, local art teachers and students give an insight into the significance of Matariki to them.

Head of Arts at Rotorua Lakes High, Megan Malcolm, says it's about giving everyone a chance to personally express their opinion of what Matariki is.

“It gives students a chance to express themselves, and that's what I'm all about.”

Young local ringatoi Kahurangi Dews- Green says art is the way to express oneself.

“Half the time, I don't actually have meanings for my mahi, it just comes out how it's supposed to and you find meanings along the way.”

Although there are lots of ways to celebrate the Māori New Year, for some, it could be art, sharing time with whānau, and embracing one another.

Arts Educator Janet Keen says what we really need to do is to embrace the children.

“Get the children while they are young into the idea of Matariki and it will grow.”

Mānawatia a Matariki!

From recycled corkscrews to visions of the stars - The Arts Village in Rotorua celebrates Matariki