Explore: Kōwhaiwhai

The koru is the integral motif of the symbolic and seemingly abstract kōwhaiwhai designs traditionally used to decorate wharenui (meeting houses). There

have in mind the relationship to the other elements of the carvings and kōwhaiwhai to complement each other. A wide range of named patterns have developed

evolved into a true system of writing. Some distinctive markings among the kōwhaiwhai (rafter paintings) of meeting houses were used as mnemonics in reciting

visual artist and educator. He is acknowledged for championing the art of kōwhaiwhai painting, creating a context for the artform within the development of

masters study on kōwhaiwhai panels. Taepa is known particularly for his works that use Western art techniques to explore traditional kōwhaiwhai forms. He reproduces

of Pukaki, a chief of the Ngati Whakaue iwi between traditional koru kowhaiwhai patterns 31 July 2006 50c 24.75 mm 1.70 mm 5.00 g Plain HM Bark Endeavour

decorative panels in wharenui (meeting houses), in stylised forms known as kōwhaiwhai. Europeans introduced Māori to their more figurative style of art, and

along with the one in Auckland. The temple has modernist geometry and kōwhaiwhai patterning with design elements specific to Māori and other Polynesian

The Kōhaihai River (Māori: Kōwhaiwhai) is a river of the northwest of New Zealand's South Island. Flowing southwest and then west from the Dommett Range

land. His use and research of kōwhaiwhai puts him alongside other contemporary Māori artists who also explored kōwhaiwhai in their art including Paratene