Aotearoa Art Fair

Two works were selected by Prof. Robert Jahnke for public exhibition at Aotearoa Art Fair 2024.

The first was a dual stone entranceway work called Tūmanawa/To stand patiently/with heart. This work continues Forde’s exploration of splitting large kōhatu / rock using the ancient method of plug and feather to make separate works that still hono / connect.

The work is inspired and grounded in the kaupapa Waiho i te toipoto, kaua i te toiroa/Let us keep dose together, not wide apart, which recognises the importance of keeping connected and maintaining relationships as we travel through life, and makes use of contemporary design elements connected with Matariki, Raukura, Rauru and Haehae.

Tūmanawa builds on the works Tūhononga which is installed at The Old Government House – Waipapa Taumata Rau / The University of Auckland, and Tū tika o Nehe installed at The British High Commission in Wellington.

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The second work, Haramai was created in collaboration with weaver Shiree Reihana (Ngapuhi, Ngati Hine, Ngai Tuteauru) and features six contemporary Pou cloaked. in contemporary kākahu, installed in a protective chevron formation recognising the importance of working together to protect the world for our young people so they can reach their potential.

This work is inspired by the ancient whakatauki
Ko koe ki tēnā
Ko ahau ki tēnei
Kiwai o te kete

You have that handle of the basket
I have this this handle of the basket
Let us together uphold the mana of raranga / weaving and whakairo / carving.