The central installation, Ka Awatea: A Journey of Life through Light, by Te Rongo Kirkwood, puts the traditional Maori cloak form into a contemporary format, using kiln-formed cold-worked glass. Light shines through beautifully sculpted glass feathers, the effect complemented by sound.
Norm Heke's large-scale photographic depictions of Maori Gods
in the 21st Century treat the subjects similarly to film, television and comic book superheroes.
From one angle, Maui and his brothers are hauling in their mighty catch, while from another, they are at the steps of Parliament, Maui brandishing Treaty documents. A sly humour is evident on their faces.
His body broken and defoliating, Tane looks in horror at the effect of urban development and motorways on his realm. The alternative image shows him standing proud over a pristine landscape.
Tu, the god of war, with science fiction weaponry, surrounded by destruction, is the stuff of computer games. These are not subtle statements, but powerful and effective.
