Pōhutukawa is one of the stars in the Matariki cluster and is the star that connects Matariki to the dead. It carries those who've passed away since the last heliacal rising of Matariki in Pipiri. Māori belief determines that the spirits of the dead leave the body and undertake a journey along Te Ara Wairua - The Pathway of Spirits. Near the ocean, the journey ends where an ancient Pōhutukawa tree stands - the dead descend the tree root into the underworld. Tamaora has used the ruru form as inspiration for this design as the ruru is a significant bird in māori culture, seen as a kaitiaki and protector of the past. It is through Pōhutukawa that we remember those who have died in the past year.
This piece is part of our Matariki Collection and will be on exhibit in our Rotorua studio until 3rd July 2022. 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 (28cm h x 23cm w).
If you're looking for a reason to buy something meaningful, and haven't quite made your mind up yet, read our top 10 reasons to gift. From supporting local artists, to the deep meaning associated to the stone.
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 has ties to Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Ngāti Whakaue and Ngāti Rangitihi.
He has also exhibited overseas and studied the work of international carvers.
