Exploring Connections between creativity and wellbeing from the Maori World view

Toi is Rongoaa Exhibition & Symposium, Hamilton

Art has often been the basis of conversations, discussions, thoughts and inspiration for a refined lifestyle.

But a refreshing outlook is being explored in a creative symposium around the transformational power of art from the perspective of Te Ao Māori (the Māori world view).

In Māori belief system, Toi is a manifestation of cultural identity that is used to interpret and disseminate knowledge. The simplest equivalent in the English language is ‘art’, a word which itself holds layers of meaning and resonance. Rongoaa, known as traditional Māori healing, provides physical and spiritual balance through attributes of the natural world.

Registrations are open now for this two-day event which will be centred on informative and inspirational presentations and workshops, with opportunities for hands-on learning and in-depth koorero. The line-up of speakers includes Professor Kereti G. Rautangata, Graham Hoete (Mr G), Te Rita Papesch, Nigel Borrell, David Kukutai Jones, Linda Munn, and Maria Huata who will act as MC throughout the event.

Waikato Museum curator Maree Mills said “This wananga will put our intent for ’Toi is Rongoaa’ into action – that it serves as a tool for transformational change. Coming together to listen, share and reflect gives us an opportunity to extend on thinking and how toi is manifested across practices. Toi isn’t art – it is the manifestation of maatauranga Māori.”

Made with support from Creative New Zealand, ’Toi is Rongoaa’ opened during Matariki 2022 and features vibrant new work from fourteen contemporary Māori artists. The exhibition name can be translated in English as ‘art is wellbeing’.

Liz Cotton, Director of Museum and Arts, Waikato Museum said “We are very much looking forward to hosting this symposium and providing a platform for these essential and timely discussions. So many of our visitors and staff have found inspiration and connection in the ’Toi is Rongoaa’ exhibition, and the diverse programme that Maree and Margy have put together for the symposium will extend and enrich this experience.” Visitors at the Toi is Rongoaa exhibition enjoying the multimedia installation ‘Kauae Runga Kauae Raro’ by Margaret Aull, Elizabeth Gray, and Leilani Kake.(photo supplied)

The exhibition, ‘Toi is Rongoaa’ which is currently on at the Waikato Museum. Curated by Margaret Aull (Te Rarawa, Tuuwharetoa, Fiji) and Maree Mills (Ngaati Tuuwharetoa), the inspiring and deeply personal works explore the need for healing and self-awareness amongst the turmoil of life.

Fluorescent wool, clay, steel, improvised music, oil paint on canvas – the varied mediums within this exhibition showcase the transformational and holistic power of creativity.

The symposium will be held Friday 2 and Saturday 3 December 2022. Entry is $25 per day and registration is required.

The exhibition  is open daily at Waikato Museum from 10am to 5pm and entry is free.

Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.