The traditional Maori Hei-tiki, or neck pendant, usually carved in pounamu (greenstone or jade), has made a big comeback as a contemporary cross-cultural accessory and tourist souvenir. For many Maori the Hei-tiki relates to a sense of Maori cultural identity; for other New Zealanders and overseas visitors, the Hei-tiki portrays a more general sense of New Zealand identity. There are plentiful references to the Hei-tiki form in Maori art and in contemporary jewellery. I spotted these great little felt Hei-tiki brooches made by Deborah Walsh, at The Little River Gallery on Banks Peninsula, 40 minutes from Christchurch. http://www.littlerivergallery.com/Observations of Life in New Zealand (and sometimes beyond) through art, architecture, photography, travel, tourism, design, food, the quirky, the bizarre, the comedic - a few of the things I am passionate about. This is my world - a world of contemplations, observations and small adventures.
Showing posts with label Deborah Walsh. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Deborah Walsh. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Heart Felt
The traditional Maori Hei-tiki, or neck pendant, usually carved in pounamu (greenstone or jade), has made a big comeback as a contemporary cross-cultural accessory and tourist souvenir. For many Maori the Hei-tiki relates to a sense of Maori cultural identity; for other New Zealanders and overseas visitors, the Hei-tiki portrays a more general sense of New Zealand identity. There are plentiful references to the Hei-tiki form in Maori art and in contemporary jewellery. I spotted these great little felt Hei-tiki brooches made by Deborah Walsh, at The Little River Gallery on Banks Peninsula, 40 minutes from Christchurch. http://www.littlerivergallery.com/
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