JAMIE BOYNTON
WHAREATUA
ABOUT THE WORK
‘Whareatua’ is the Māori name given to our native white mushrooms, often found growing wild throughout Aotearoa/New Zealand, and used for kai/food.
Translated as ‘home of gods’, could Whareatua in fact be a reference to the home of the Patupaiarehe, the spirit people often referred to in our ancient Māori folklore?
Comprised of a series of internally lit 'Giant Mushrooms', and combining customary knowledge with re-purposed and sustainably sourced materials - Whareatua is a playful and evocative experience, encouraging us to re-connect, by entering the dreamscape of the spirits.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Jamie Boynton - Ngāi Tūhoe, Te Whakatōhea
Known for his attention to detail and fine application of tools and technology, Jamie draws upon his indigenous knowledge as a foundation for creativity and innovation.
While supporting a strong social and environmental conscience, Jamie draws metaphors from Māori culture and weaves them into a broader cultural context, to produce 'iconic' contemporary New Zealand art. His desire is to reignite the wisdom of our ancestors in a way that inspires future generations - "visioning for a better world".