Napier: The Arts Report

So I was on my way to a possum fur shop when I walked past an interesting-looking little gallery. I was warmly welcomed by two Maori artists, Letitia and Tanya, who were recent art school graduates exhibiting there.

What I had intended to be a 5, maybe 10 minute visit turned into several hours. As Kiwis like to say: “as it would”. They were both really friendly, seemed very laid back and not too worried about whether they were going to sell art or not. Since it was a slow day I think they were glad to see me.

They quickly picked up on the accent and asked me all sorts of questions about where I was from, what was I doing here, etc., had I had lunch yet? (I think I’d mentioned how much I love the seafood in this country) Tanya suggested Letitia take me on a run to the local fish shop and bring back some fush ‘n chups.

Letitia took me on a bit of a city tour in the rain en route and pointed out the highlights. We thought we’d beat the lunch rush at the fish shop but they were in the middle of cooking up an order for a school bus full of kids. Good chance to get to know Letitia, who went to a Maori art school just down the road in Hastings, has five (!) kids, oldest of which is 15.

I got the crumbed fish special and since there was fresh fish for sale as well, a kg of local mussels for $4.99NZD. After lunch I got a lengthy tour of Letitia’s paintings and the inspiration behind them. Her paintings are all a series based on traditional Maori symbols, and the symbols from a deck of cards (hearts/clubs/spades/diamonds). With these she examines gambling and how it has affected Maoris, Maori history, and well, other stuff. She’s obviously very bright, the series was well thought out, and I really dug the colours. I would’ve loved to buy one to take home.
She was also working in the shop on a commission and was doing a Marquette for a larger piece. (see photos above)

Letitia really had an awesome sense of humour so we hit it off. I finally realized I had to be at the Art Deco Centre at 2 pm for a walking tour. As a parting gift L. gave me the flower woven from flax you see above! Awesome.

I dropped by again the next morning to say hi/goodbye, take a few more photos. Tanya decided I needed a photo of me receiving a “tourist of the week” award, and went to some trouble to rearrange the exhibit up front to make this happen.

Real sweethearts, both of them.