Wh?n?ung?t?ng?

London art exhibition explores New Zealand culture through contemporary design - Friday April 7th

New Zealand born artist Isaac Trebilco is set to open his first European exhibition of paintings and imagery that explore Maori culture and New Zealand identity.

The exhibition is called Wh?n?ung?t?ng?, meaning kinship; a sense of family connection through shared experiences. Trebilco postulates that by embracing and honoring each other’s culture it strengthens the Wh?n?ung?t?ng? we have together.

This concept is reflected in a series of works that blends Trebilco’s upbringing and multi-cultural community - interweaving indigenous Maori design with contemporary stream-of consciousness markings.

The distinctive illustrations combine old and new techniques – blending modern stencilwork with traditional mediums like oil and watercolour. Principally the swirling koru pattern is used as a central recurring theme. Trebilco recycles historical elements to create an integrated and symbolic present.

Supported by the Ng?ti R?nana London M?ori Club, the opening night will feature a karakia and special performance.