Toi Māori Market 2017

The original event date of December 2016 was disrupted by the Kaikoura earthquake of 23rd November. However, the preforming arts at the Wellington Opera House programme comprising Tu Whare the Musical Showcase of poetry set to music continued with the fantastic audience response to a show that was first seen in the 2006 New Zealand International Arts Festival and then showcased at the Auckland Arts Festival also in 2006. It was an emotional performance as Hone Tuwhare had attended the final Auckland show but had since passed away. In addition, two of the original casts Mahinarangi Tocker and Graham Brazier had also passed away. The following evening was the New Zealand premiere of the amazing performance "Pango/Black" by Atamira choreographed by Moss Patterson the show was a stunning success. Taki Rua Productions had toured their show through schools of the region as a preliminary to this feast of performing excellence. The organisers of Māori Art Market are extremely grateful to the artists and producers of these amazing shows and acknowledge their resilience in such a stressful time.

The original timing of the visual arts showcase at the Wharewaka was to coincide with the performing arts programme. However, this wasn't to be and the Wharewaka event was produced in isolation of the marketing and promotional work leading into the December performing arts component.

A key feature of the Wharewaka showcase was the great art by a selection of senior artists alongside so many of the emerging and mid career artists. All participating artists thoroughly enjoyed the central waterfront location of the event and the warm response from the Wellington public. The art schools Toi Houkura, Toi Mairangi, Te Wananga o Raukawa, brought the energy and vibrancy for which these schools have become renowned. The presence of Te Uhi a Mataora, Te Roopu Raranga Whatu and Te Atinga demonstrated their art forms to a keen audience. Artists exhibiting in the Toi Māori gallery included senior and emerging artists.