The story behind the portraits
KANOHI ORA THE LIVING FACE PORTRAITS
Photo of artist Te Māreikura in front of portraits Ùra and Moemoe at the inaugural exhibition at Thistle Hall, Wellington. July 2024.
The story behind the Kanohi Ora - The Living Face Portraits
‘Kanohi Ora’ means the ‘Living Face’ in the Māori language. It represents centuries of cultural practice which connects us with our departed loved ones. We are the living faces of our loved ones who have passed before us and it is up to us to carry on their heritage and legacy.
The Kanohi Ora Portraits have been curated to embody the journey of reconnecting with one’s roots and heritage. This exhibition captures a deeply personal voyage that everyone embarks on at some stage in their lives. By centering Tahitian culture, we present a streamlined path to reconnection, sparking meaningful discussions about identity and connection.
‘Te Haeata’ means ‘beam of light’ and symbolises the first and last rays of the sun, serving as an artistic metaphor that connects us to the past, present, and future. In this portrait, a living face stands proud as a true testament to those who have come before her. With every twinkle of light, every glistening wave, and every rising and setting sun, comes hope for a new generation. This is the very moment when dawn becomes dusk and dusk becomes dawn.
She represents our future. Just as the Tahitian navigators graced the shores of Aotearoa many moons ago and became the ancestors of many Māori, their legacy lives on in us. As the land was vast, innovation flourished, leading to incredible technological and artistic achievements. By looking back to move forward, we create a better world, honouring our past while embracing the potential of our future.
0. Te Haeata
TUMU
We begin our journey with Tumu. In the Tahitian language, ‘Tumu’ means both ‘tree trunk’ and ‘purpose.’ For Tahitians, purpose is akin to grounding, as tree trunks extend their roots deep into the earth. The word for culture is ‘Hiro’a Tumu,’ signifying that Tumu embodies grounding, and a connection to land and culture.
Tahitians also embrace the concept of ‘hotu pāinu,’ meaning ‘the drifting fruit,’ often illustrated by a coconut that falls into the water and drifts aimlessly with the tides. This metaphor highlights that the further you stray from your tree, or ‘Tumu,’ the more disconnected you become.
Thus, the first step in discovering your heritage is to identify the tree from which you originated.
II. NATI
‘Nati’ means to ‘bind’ or ‘weave together,’ emphasising the importance of connections. This concept symbolises our ties to our people, heritage, culture, and the natural world.
Once we have found our ‘Tumu’ or ‘Tree Trunk,’ we can begin to explore the roots—how far they extend, how they intertwine, and how they connect to the surrounding trees. This serves as a metaphor for family lineage, delving into the depths of our identity. Understanding these connections helps us understand ourselves and the reasons behind who we are.
In this portrait, the sky is reflected by the ocean in a necklace made of mother of pearl, adorned with carved circular motifs in a ripple pattern, representing an unbroken chain. This further symbolises our connection to the elements and the vastness of the universe.
III. Mata
‘Mata’ means ‘face’ or ‘eyes’ and symbolises self-awakening. It is an ancient word that spans across the Pacific, tracing back to the island of Taiwan, where the indigenous word for face is also ‘Mata.’ This word has survived centuries of voyaging traditions and is part of the Austronesian language family, predating the Tahitian settlement of the central Pacific area.
When you understand where your ‘Tumu’ tree is from, where your ‘Nati’ connections are, and how far they extend, your DNA begins to awaken. You start to perceive the world with new eyes and ears, gaining a deeper understanding of your place in this world. This awakening enables you to connect with your ancestral roots and cultural heritage on a profound level, enriching your sense of identity and belonging.
IV. Moemoe
‘Moemoe’ in the Tahitian language means ‘longing’ or ‘nostalgia’ and is a significant aspect of the identity journey. Often, the path to reconnection can be as painful as the initial disconnection that caused you to drift away in the first place.
These emotions grow deeper and more visceral, stirring up feelings of nostalgia as you reflect on everything you have missed. Yet, this process also prompts a beautiful explosion of emotion, compelling you to embrace your identity with all your heart. The journey of reconnection, with all its challenges and rewards, ultimately strengthens your bond to your heritage and roots, making the rediscovered connections even more precious.
V. Ùra
‘Ùra’ is the word for ‘red’ in Tahitian and holds great significance in all Pacific cultures. It symbolises high rank, royalty, and aristocracy, denoting power, honor, and prestige.
This portrait embodies the concept of ascension, reflecting the journey of self-discovery and the realisation of your DNA potential. As you delve deeper into your heritage and understand your true self, you become more radiant and vibrant. The color red returns, symbolising the revitalisation of your spirit and the elevation of your status. This transformation highlights the profound connection between identity and heritage, illustrating how understanding your roots can lead to a powerful and regal sense of self. The vibrancy of ‘Ùra’ serves as a reminder of the strength and beauty inherent in your cultural legacy, illuminating your path with renewed confidence and pride.