Tauhia, by Mei Hill
By Helen Martin
Te Awaroa Helensville has a new innovative venture designed to provide a space for making, exhibiting and selling Mâori art.
Pâtiki Studio-Gallery, situated in the space formerly occupied by the Art on Track Gallery at the north end of town, is the brain child of artist Mei Hill (NgatiWhatua, Nga Puhi, Te Aupouri, Te Rarawa) who has worked in the fields of arts and culture for many years. Mei has a strong connection to Te Awaroa Helensville as she is originally from Otakanini and her marae is Haranui, on the way to South Head, where her whanau have lived for many generations.
Mei is passionate about all Mâori art, particularly contemporary. Her gallery is available for hire as both an exhibition and a work space and her aim is to provide a high quality, eclectic mix of art over time. Pre-loved art will also be on sale.
The inaugural exhibition, which opened on 25 June, showcases Mei’s own work. Her series of framed metallic foil prints is titled Kaitiaki (Guardianship).
Pâtiki Studio-Gallery is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am – 3pm.