In class, students explored this sacred art by creating foam-carved prints to honour someone special in their whānau. They began by learning that tā moko is much more than decoration. Every line and symbol carries meaning, reflecting the person’s story and identity. Through videos and examples, students saw how tā moko connects Māori to their tūpuna and discovered how different symbols can represent feelings, experiences, or the qualities of a person.
I chose to create my art to represent my koro that passed away. He was brave, strong and caring. To show that I used koru to show him and my family together because the koru symbol means strength. I chose the fish scales to show his journey through life. Lastly, I chose the fish hook because he loves the sea and it shows mana.
To plan their designs, students chose someone important to them and interviewed family members to learn more about their lives. They asked questions about personal achievements, challenges, and moments of growth. This helped students identify what mattered to their whānau members and what made them unique.
After gathering information, students researched traditional Māori symbols and chose three to four to incorporate into their designs. They carved foam blocks, applied ink, and printed their artwork. This process explored how symbols can be combined to tell a story that is uniquely theirs, even when using similar symbols as others.
My tā moko print is about my grandad and uncle. That is why there are two parts on it. I chose these people because they are really important to me and to represent their battle with cancer. I chose the koru because it shows strength, rising and new beginnings. The pikorua is important because it shows life paths with twists and turns. The unaunahi (fish scales) show their journey through life, and the niho show strength, power and protection. I think these symbols help tell their story.
Through this project, students strengthened their connection with their whānau, gained a deeper understanding of Māori cultural traditions, and saw how making a mark in art can be used to express identity and personal stories in meaningful ways.
Having initially begun my career in education as a teacher aide in 2016, I have thoroughly enjoyed working alongside students to build their confidence and develop pride in their identity. I’m passionate about te reo Māori and kapa haka, as I firmly believe this is an important part of students finding their identity and sense of belonging as a student in Aotearoa.
With a particular focus on building students’ mana, I have developed a strength for building connections and relationships with my students. In my daily practice, I seek to achieve this by encouraging students to step out of their comfort zone, and show opportunity by giving everything a go.
Outside of the classroom, you can find me getting lost in my kindle or spending time with friends and whānau at the lake.
Comments
No one has commented on this post yet.