Matapiata | Artist in Residence 2023-2024 – Jordan Tane

Introducing Jordan Tane (Ngāpuhi), as Whāriki Artist in Residence.

Jordan was instrumental in our 2023 Matariki Huihuinga series, designing and creating stunning artwork to support the maramataka from June 2023 to May 2024.

Jordan describes Matariki and the nine whetū below:

Matariki is a cluster of whetū (stars) also known as the Pleiades, that comes into sight in Aotearoa, just before dawn in midwinter. This heralds the Māori new year and the changing of the seasons. Iwi celebrate Matariki at different times, in different ways, with some recognising seven whetū, while for others there are nine, each making a different contribution to tāngata and te taiao.

Matariki, the celestial matriarch, births the eight stars in her cosmic embrace. Her essence weaves through health and wellness, a harbinger of fortunes and vitality in the days ahead. When the radiant cluster and Matariki’s luminary gleam aloft, they bestow prosperity and harmonious fate upon beholders.

Pōhutukawa, the second whetū, entwines with the departed, souls of the bygone year. Embarking on the ethereal path, Te Ara Wairua. Guided towards Te Rerenga Wairua, where a weathered Pōhutukawa graces a rocky ledge overlooking the vast sea. Here, the spirits descend, traversing the tree’s sacred roots, venturing into the realms beneath. Gaze upon this star, an offering of reflection, a tender remembrance for cherished ones now beyond the veil.

Tupuānuku, the third whetū, dances with the earth’s nourishment. Linked to bountiful sustenance that sprouts from the soil, it emerges in May, signalling the close of summer’s yield, with winter’s embrace drawing near. Fix your gaze upon this celestial guide, and sow intentions within your garden’s embrace.

Tupuārangi, the fourth whetū, weaves a celestial tapestry of food that comes from the sky. In the realm of tradition, kererū once graced harvests during this celestial juncture. Elevated treasures, born of berries and fruits, find their connection with this star’s radiance. Gather this fresh abundance, an offering shared with community, cherished whānau, and friends, weaving bonds of sustenance and delight.

Waitī, the fifth whetū, in watery realms finds its place, where rivers, streams, and lakes intertwine with grace. Freshwater’s essence, living creatures it holds dear, a celestial bond that we should revere. Gaze upon this star, with recognition and appreciation, for Aotearoa’s precious fresh waters. Let intentions bloom, to preserve our waters’ pristine bloom, by using this time for mindful contemplation. Conserve each droplet, let not a single one be lost, and join hands in community, to cleanse the streams at nature’s cost.

Waitā, the sixth whetū, in ocean’s embrace gleams, twin to Waitī, united in celestial dreams. It symbolizes food from the sea, a bounty it presents, while tides and floods obey its celestial commands. Behold this star’s radiance, with intentions pure and clear, to safeguard our salt waters, and all living creatures held dear. Embrace the call for harmony, in ways environmentally sound, conserving water’s essence, reducing waste that abounds. Let responsible fishing be our guiding light, a testament to our love for the ocean, shining bright.

Waipuna-ā-rangi, the seventh whetū, dances with rain’s embrace, a name echoing “water pooling in celestial space. “Gaze upon this star, in moments of reflection, to recognise the essence of fresh rainfall’s life-affirming connection.

Ururangi, the eighth whetū, waltzes with the winds, a name bestowed, “the breath of heavens” it sings. Traditionally, it foretells the nature of the breeze, whispering secrets of the winds for the year’s forthcoming ease.

Hiwa-i-te-rangi, the final whetū, adorns the sky, bearing the promise of a season rich with flourishing. Known as the wishing star, it holds aspirations and dreams, for Māori, a vessel for setting their yearning streams. Gaze upon this star, let its brilliance ignite, as you weave your goals and resolutions, shining bright, for the year that unfolds, allow Hiwa-i-te-rangi to lead your dreams.