Alan Preston, Paua Chain, 1994. Collection of The Dowse Art Museum, purchased 1994
Areta Wilksinson, Hei Tiki, 2019. Courtesy of the artist and The National, Christchurch. Photo: Gina Matchitt
Ngā Hokohoko explores the kaupapa of hokohoko–exchange, trade, barter–within the contemporary jewellery community in Aotearoa.
From Areta Wilkinson’s luxurious gold Hine-Āhua and Huiarei (2013) to Alan Preston’s Pāua Chain (1994), the exhibition looks at how we have shared ideas, materials and techniques.
Featuring several of the most innovative jewellers from the past 40 years, Ngā Hokohoko charts connections and contrasts in materials and pivotal influences such as mātauranga Māori and Pasifika adornment.
The exhibition proposes hokohoko as a framework for bicultural dynamics and features the work of Pauline Bern, Matthew McIntyre-Wilson (Taranaki, Ngā Māhanga and Titahi), Neke Moa (Ngāti Kahungunu, Kāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Tūwharetoa), Alan Preston, Joe Sheehan and Areta Wilkinson (Kāi Tahu, Kāti Mamoe, Waitaha).
Exhibiting the work of these six artists together activates a conversation. Ngā Hokohoko presents an essential, nuanced understanding of indigenous materials and practice, reflected in the work of Māori and Pākehā makers.
READ: 'Ngā Hokohoko: Cultural Transference' exhibition essay by Gina Matchitt.
Curated by Gina Matchitt (Te Arawa, Whakatōhea) 2019 Blumhardt/Creative New Zealand Curatorial Intern
Ngā Hokohoko, installation view. Photo: Nick Taylor
Ngā Hokohoko, installation view. Photo: Nick Taylor
Ngā Hokohoko, installation view. Photo: Nick Taylor
Pauline Bern, The Ring Project (detail), 2006. Collection of The Dowse Art Museum, purchased 2006. Photo: Nick Taylor
Ngā Hokohoko, installation view. Photo: Nick Taylor
