A large-scale film etched work on acrylic by contemporary Auckland artist Reuben Kirkwood is taking viewers on a visual journey, exploring the connection of local iwi to the waterways and portages of the area.
Commissioned by Ormiston Town Centre developer, Todd Property Group, the permanent installation was unveiled and blessed by local iwi Ngāi Tai Ki Tāmaki on February 11.
‘Nga Tai Paringa – The Flowing Tides’ fills eight floor-to-ceiling panels in a wide connecting corridor in Ormiston Town Centre, informing viewers of ancient kōrero and local knowledge as treasured by Ngāi Tai Ki Tāmaki today.
Ngāi Tai Ki Tāmaki Kaiwhakairo (head carver) Reuben Kirkwood said the concept evolved from the moving tides within local waterways and the interpretation of these waterways within the wider panoramic view of Auckland.
“The graphics used within this series have been developed using traditional carving principles to represent the personalities of the tides and mimic the way that carving captures light and shadow on haehae (carved ridges),” said Kirkwood.
Ngāi Tai Ki Tāmaki Trust CEO Tama Potaka says that Ngāi Tai Ki Tāmaki appreciates the opportunity to partner with Todd Property and share tribal kōrero with the present generation, including the new and growing Ormiston community.
“Reuben has done a fantastic job applying the whakairo process to deliver a work that is genuine and appealing to mana whenua and the diverse community that resides in the local area,” said Potaka.
Todd Property Group general manager property Bryce Morrin says the work is a spectacular addition to Ormiston Town Centre that will add depth and interest to its spaces.
“Todd Property Group is proud to support this partnership with local iwi and artists to bring a layer of history and storytelling to Ormiston Town Centre,” said Morrin.
The new artwork can be found by accessing the corridor next to Tran’s Kitchen off The Eatery, or next to The Photo Studio off the retail strip.
