Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua

Artwork Statement

This statement piece was created for Art in the Park 2025 and stands as the anchor of Josh Kiwikiwi’s collection. Its title, drawn from a whakataukī (Māori proverb), reflects his artistic journey and the kaupapa that grounds the body of work.

At its centre, a wāhine holds her gaze with strength and reflection. She moves forward while carrying the wisdom of her tūpuna, embodying the cyclical nature of time in te ao Māori, where past, present, and future live within us and connect us across generations.

The surface, textured like concrete, recalls the urban world, yet woven through it are patterns, colour, and gold leaf — markers of vitality, tradition, and identity. Gold-filled tears run across the work, inspired by kintsugi, symbolising both the fracture of cultural loss and the beauty of reclamation. The wahine stands as pou — contemporary and ancestral — a guardian and guide, holding balance between te ao hurihuri (the changing world) and te ao Māori.

Limited Edition Print

This giclée archival print comes from a hand-signed edition of just 25. Printed on premium grade fine art paper, each work is crafted to last and available in a range of sizes to suit your space.

Details

• Printed on Fine Art Etching Cotton Rag 330gsm Matte

• 100% cotton rag with a traditional printmaking etching texture

• Acid-free base stock for longevity and archival quality

• Matte finish that enhances tones, shades, and fine details

• Designed to bring depth, movement, and a classic fine art feel to the work

Shipping

• Standard flat rate courier shipping within Aotearoa New Zealand

• Express options available on request (buyer’s expense)

• Packaged securely in a protective postal tube

• Comes with a signed Certificate of Authenticity

• Estimated delivery 5–10 business days

Bring this limited edition piece into your home and add something truly enduring to your collection.