Author(s): Robyn Kahukiwa

NZ Art and Artists | Fine Art

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Since the early 1970s Robyn Kahukiwa has been painting and exhibiting art that celebrates socio-cultural issues - some which are controversial - that are central to the Maori experience in Aotearoa New Zealand today but equally relevant to all indigenous peoples of the world; ranging over issues such as colonialism and the dispossession of indigenous people, motherhood and bloodties, social custom, mythology and political activism. A uniquely Polynesian treatment and bright, vivid palettes have made Robyn's art instantly recognisable and respected by some of the worlds leading art historians such as Edward Lucie-Smith. In Robyn's own words her works reflect the mana or prestige of her people; strength, energy, dynamism and continuance.