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Tupuānuku is one of the stars of the Matariki cluster. The star is connected to food that grows in the ground. “Tupu” means “to grow” and “nuku” is a shortened version of Papatūānuku (Mother Earth) – therefore, Tupuānuku means to grow in the earth.
This piece is part of our Matariki Collection and will be on exhibit in our Rotorua studio until 11th July 2021. You can reserve (pre-purchase) this limited-edition carving online, and it will be shipped to you as soon as the exhibition is finished. Included, is the original framed artwork, signed by Tamaora Walker. The photo frame is (23cm h x 18cm w).
This piece was designed and carved by Tamaora Walker and crafted from New Zealand pounamu.





The artist behind this creationPerhaps it’s a trick of the light that lends translucence to Tamaora’s work. Or maybe this glow is evidence of an ancient Māori belief that pounamu lives and breathes. Tamaora regards pounamu with reverence and respect born of his Māori heritage, with traditional forms and symbolism deeply influencing his designs. Tamaora is from Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Ngāti Whakaue and Ngāti Rangitihi.
He has also exhibited overseas and studied the work of international carvers.

