Michael Parekōwhai

Kapa Haka (Pākākā)

Kapa Haka (Pākākā) by Michael Parekōwhai

Artwork Detail

Pākākā is modelled on the artist’s tuakana (older brother) Paratene, a security guard and a very large person in real life. This stereotype of the Māori male, can be linked to after-dark bars, clubs and large events that need crowd control. In the gallery context this work suggests that Pākākā has the power to deny or offer protection... but against what and whom? The title adds to this uncertainty because ‘kapa haka’ is a contemporary term associated with a positive assertion of Māori identity and culture. (Te Moananui a Kiwa, 2005)

Title
Kapa Haka (Pākākā)
Artist/creator
Michael Parekōwhai
Production date
2003
Medium
automotive paint on fibreglass
Dimensions
1900 x 600 x 500 mm
Credit line
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, gift of the Patrons of the Auckland Art Gallery, 2004
Accession no
2004/33
Copyright
Copying restrictions apply
Department
New Zealand Art
Display status
Not on display

To find out which artworks are available for print requests and reproduction please enquire here. This service only applies to select artworks in the Gallery's collection.