Te Whakawhiti-o-te-ra Art Print - Tipene Douglas

Te Whakawhiti-o-te-ra - Māori Art by Tipene Douglas

This artwork was inspired by the beautiful weather on a sunny day in the Cook Islands. The sunlight streaming through the clouds represents the grace and glory of God. 

The piece balances traditional Polynesian designs with Poutama (stairway) patterns that represent various churches. It reflects both original cultural beliefs and new Christian beliefs which Tipene believes can coexist.

The manaia figure at the top left represents the spiritual guardians of sky, land and sea. It can be seen as a bird or, if flipped upside down, a skink (small lizard). This figure is regarded as a kaitiaki (guardian) by the Rarotongan people. 

Available in:

Box Frame (contemporary with glass)
Water colour - matte watercolour paper print, comes with a border and slimline frame

Frames are available in white, black or pale wood and prints are ready to hang. Please state colour at time of ordering.

Some items have to be printed to order, so please allow up to 2-3 weeks for framed art.

Tipene is a Maori artist specialising in Maori visual arts, including ta moko and kowhaiwhai. He is from Ngati Ranginui and Ngai Te Rangi from Tauranga. Ngati Hine of the Far North and Ngai Tahu and Rangitane of the South Island, with connections to Kaikoura and Blenheim (Waiharakeke).

His practice primarily utilises acrylic paint and ink pen, and he has held a strong passion for Maori visual arts from a young age. In 2015, he completed a Certificate in Maori Art and Design at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology in Tauranga before progressing to complete two years of a Bachelor of Creative Industries (Art & Design) also at Toi Ohomai.