In the realm of arts, the word ‘versatile’ is often bestowed upon those who transcend boundaries. Yet, few embody this trait as seamlessly as the dynamic creative practitioner and multi-disciplinary artist, Pita Turei. Rooted deeply within the local iwi, Pita has carved a niche for himself as a profound storyteller, bridging the gap between the rich tapestries of yesteryears and the vibrant pulse of today’s generation.
In Tāmaki Makaurau, he stands as a beacon, an orator par excellence, drawing young and old into the mesmerising tales of ancestral wisdom.
Last Sunday, as dawn broke on the 29th of October, a hush descended upon the participants of a unique gathering. Under the tender embrace of the sun and moon, with the elements bearing witness, we were graced with the sanctity of a traditional Whakatau led by Pita Turei. It was not merely a ceremony but a dance of words and rites, replete with blessings, stories of cosmology, and insights into the very soul of Aotearoa Lands.
As Pita once eloquently mentioned, “Commencing in the profound quiet of the darkest hour and journeying into the light offers a unique prism to view and experience our narratives, especially those anchored in the landscapes, rooted in Whakapapa, and preserved in our oral traditions.”
The celebration is far from over. This coming Saturday, the 4th, Pita Turei, alongside Antonio Karam (@carecangola), a musician and connoisseur of sound healing and Temazcal rituals, will inaugurate the Ritual exhibition. Set against the backdrop of The Upstairs Gallery in Titirangi, the evening promises a fusion of Maori and Aztec ceremonies from 4 pm onwards.
Post the inaugural rites, immerse yourself in a tapestry of multicultural musical renditions and behold the ancestral contemporary art, as envisioned by 18 distinct artists.
Entry is complimentary till 8 pm.
A journey through time, art, and narratives awaits. We eagerly anticipate your presence.
Until then, Warm Regards.