Tā Ua: The Rain in Print is a powerful exhibition that brings together a series of original artworks inspired by pūrakau (ancestral stories) and kōrero (narratives) connected to Matariki. This showcase is the culmination of an intensive printmaking workshop series in which participating artists, many of whom are international and unfamiliar with these themes, bravely stepped into new territory. Through the tactile process of lino printing, they engaged deeply with both the medium and the rich cultural landscape of te ao Māori.
Each artwork represents a personal and emotional exploration of Matariki through the lens of both manuhiri (visitors) and tangata whenua (people of the land), offering a unique and layered perspective on the significance of this celestial event. This year’s Matariki theme, Waipunarangi, which acknowledges the connection between rain and the nurturing of life, resonates strongly throughout the exhibition. Rain, as both subject and symbol, reflects the renewal, growth, and interconnectedness embodied in these works.
This exhibition aligns with Art + Body Creative Studios’ own tikanga, supporting and educating both indigenous and non-indigenous communities about taonga tuku iho, the treasured knowledge and cultural practices passed down through generations. By fostering cultural exchange and artistic experimentation, Tā Ua becomes more than just an exhibition; it is a celebration of shared learning, respect, and the enduring legacy of Māori tradition.
Meet the Artists
jordyn
Jordyn is a multi-disciplinary artist and Ringatā Moko who has recently completed an apprenticeship under Tohunga Mark Kopua.
He uri ia nō Te Tai Rāwhiti me Te Tai Tokerau.
Sofi
Sofi is an illustrator from Argentina who finds inspiration in all aspects of nature and the mysteries of the universe. She aims to capture and weave the magic that she finds in the simplicity of nature into each of her designs: the movement of a flower, sunlight reflecting off of water, the energy around us.
Emily
Emily is an artist from the Waikato. With a background in body piercing, she has a long standing passion for art and body modification and is now furthering her skills with tattooing. Finding her inspiration in the natural world around us and combining it with the techniques of engraving and medieval art, she combines these to bring you unique and eye catching designs.
Seth
Seth has over twenty years of experience in the tattoo industry, mastering the art of custom tattoo. He specialises in Japanese oriental, dot work, american traditional, realism and pop art.
Tina
Originally from Prague, Czechia, Tina began her creative journey studying 3D and animation in London. With a lifelong love for cats, movies, games and storytelling, she's always been drawn to creative expression, but it was tattooing that truly captured her heart and became her artistic passsion.
Maka
Maka hails from Ngāti Ranginui and has the privilege of being a practicing tā moko artist in their hometown of Tauranga Moana.
Drawn to moko, he finds it a profound way to deepen their identity and connection to their own Māoritanga and whakapapa.
Ness
Ness is a dedicated artist with an ethical and multi-style approach to the tattoo practice. His main styles are black and grey, illustrative and watercolors.
Currently as a guest artist in Tauranga and Mount Maunganui
Amaria
As a visual artist she has an immense passion for everything related to pop culture. Her practice primarily involves investigating contemporary commercial art. She continuously seeks to enhance her illustrative style by experimenting with a diverse range of techniques and mediums.
Amie
Amie is a Mount Maunganui based illustrator currently undergoing a tattooing apprentiship at Art + Body Creative Studios.
Marino
Bio TBC
Julie
Julie (Jules) has 30 years experience with ta moko and has been active as an artist for 40 years. Her post-graduate qualifications in third world development and maori visual arts uniquely positions her understanding of maori art as a cultural practice with the ability to heal trauma.
Jules has firm foundations within customary (traditional) maori techniques and design but as a progressive multimedia artist, is always challenging the development of ta moko.