Robyn Kahukiwa’s artworks have made a difference to Māori. They have provided not only beauty and strength but inroads into our mātauranga, and the multi-layered, inter-generational and ever-evolving stories that are part of our cultural landscape. Her work has become an alternate visual rendering of Aotearoa’s history, through the lens of a Māori woman.

The title Tohunga Mahi Toi is a form of recognition and refers to Robyn’s status and expertise as an artist, valued here and internationally.

Let us acclaim Robyn Kahukiwa. Let us celebrate her art. Let us celebrate the weaving of whakapapa and whānau that she presents us, and entwined with that, always the raising of the wide-reaching capabilities of women. Let us celebrate her gift and her great determination.

Curated by Roma Pōtiki (Te Aupōuri, Te Rarawa)

Developed in partnership by: New Zealand Portrait Gallery Te Pūkenga Whakaata and Te Manawa Museum of Art, Science and Heritage

Photography: Jess O’Brien