Simi (Simone) Paris
Ngapuhi.
A kaiako for the past 12 years at Te Wananga o Aotearoa in Kirikiriroa, Simi’s artist perspective is driven by kaupapa and relevance and is strongly influenced by the relationship between the representation of Māori in art forms and their visual narrative.
“Māori values and strategies are a vital part of determining how particular principles or ways of being and doing inform contemporary and traditional Māori Art.”
Simi is continuously inspired by the skills of her Tupuna (ancestors) and the Taha Wairua (spiritual aspects) that are intrinsic to Toi Māori.
‘Me Atawhai Te Taha Wairua o Te Ora Me Te Taha Tinana Ano Hoki – Nurture the Spiritual as well as the Physical.’
Te Ao Mārama Māori believe that in nature everything is linked, Te Ao Mārama (the natural world). This installation of works are a nod to Papatūānuku. Te Ao Mārama features the use of traditional and contemporary styles, placement and designs of raranga that endeavour to create an awareness of Matariki. Matariki, heralds the New Year for Māori, a time to consider the past and present, a time for all to re connect to the land. The kaupapa is of positive change, Te Hurihanga o Te Hau, (the changing of the winds), a visual response associated with these changes and current environmental issues.<br>Temporary installation.
