Pairing imagery of skulls, unborn children and farmers clothing with kowhaiwhai these seemingly unrelated objects are closely related to the notion of whakapapa through the themes of life and death and continuation. The series developed as Witehira reflected upon the passing of his grandfather (a farmer), grandmother and then cousin. The title, which combines the words tangi and taniwha, references these deaths and taniwha as a metaphor for death.
Artwork from Tangi-wha Series (2016). Giclee archival print on 260gsm Lustre archival paper. 1200mm x 1200mm.
Artwork from Tangi-wha Series (2016). Giclee archival print on 260gsm Lustre archival paper. 1200mm x 1200mm.
Artwork from Tangi-wha Series (2016). Giclee archival print on 260gsm Lustre archival paper. 1200mm x 1200mm.