Ngahina Hohaia: Roimata Toroa
15 Dec 2007 - 02 Mar 2008
This ceremonial application of poi combines the recitation of whakapapa (genealogy) and karakia (ritual incantation) with the movement and rhythm of poi. The poi becomes the Manu – the messenger, or story-teller.
Nineteenth century Parihaka oratory was rich in symbolism, both ancient and contemporary, that expressed the Taranaki people’s struggle of passive resistance to European colonisation, intertwining Māori and biblical identities into liberation ideology.
The embroidered poi that form the installation are made from New Zealand wool blankets, products of the New Zealand agricultural economy which is built on Māori land. The blanket is a metaphor for the historical imbalance of wealth and power on this land. With Roimata Toroa, the woollen poi also become a tribute to the strength and resilience of the Parihaka movement, and to the continued global relevance of the messages of Te Whiti-o-Rongomai and Tohu Kākahi.
The timing of this exhibition coincides with the Parihaka Peace Festival which takes place in Taranaki from 11- 13 January.