Maori Artists On Show

Maori Artists On Show

A moko artist, a composer and a celebrity chef are just three of the artists profiled in the new season of Maori Television’s art show KETE ARONUI – starting September 19 at 8:00 PM.

Now in its eighth year, KETE ARONUI covers the creative spectrum - from carvers and film-makers to writers, painters and glass blowers - to get to the heart of Maori art.

A unique blend of culture and creativity, the show pays tribute to contemporary Maori artists, but also celebrates the traditions and culture that makes their work Maori.

Each of the 13 half-hour episodes focuses on an established or emerging artist as they talk about their life and work, their passions, achievements and aspirations.

This latest series of KETE ARONUI, produced by Kiwa Productions, kicks off with a profile of acclaimed photographer John Miller.

Miller has spent his life documenting protests in Aotearoa with his camera, capturing momentous events, and recording his own experiences in the pursuit of peace throughout the past forty years.

This first episode of KETE ARONUI captures the man behind the camera, his sensitivity to the issues he has covered and his determination to document the development of Maori self-determination.

Episode two dips into the hectic life of Jacob Scott, an architect and art educator who is rebuilding the models to teach art and a Maori way of doing business.

Shane Dudley shares his story in episode three of KETE ARONUI. An emerging artist, Dudley works with cement and mixed media to create provocative works that promote discussion about New Zealand and its history.

We learn about the people who have inspired Shane on his artistic journey, as his family and friends speak candidly about the man behind the art.

Other artists profiled throughout the series include renowned painter Robyn Kahukiwa, writer and illustrator Gavin Bishop and composer Dame Gillian Whitehead.

Top international celebrity chef Peter Gordon also features in this season of KETE ARONUI, which traces the Taranaki export’s route to international acclaim, overseeing his restaurants in London and Auckland, his charity work and his take on one of his latest pet projects, the gourmet hangi.

Pip Hartley, an Auckland-based ta moko artist, brings her wise life philosophy to the camera, while the final episode of KETE ARONUI turns to Tracey Tawhiao, a painter, writer and poet.

Trained as a lawyer, Tawhiao became a painter and writer instead of pursuing a legal career. Known for her newspaper paintings, Tawhiao’s work addresses social and political issues with particular emphasis on the position of Maori in contemporary New Zealand society.

Tune in to Maori Television at 8:00 PM on September 19 to find out more about these amazing people and watch their creative juices flow in KETE ARONUI.

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