1835 Workshop with Tessa Russell

Last year Tessa began making full size one off polaroids, each held in a metal case that has been stamped with 1835, the year that He Whakaputanga was signed. She started this series in a state of frustration as “three privileged men who grew up in Aotearoa rapidly erase any progress we have made as a country over the last 189 years” but also out of hope as an act of resistance. She says that “while the images displayed in these wearable pieces may slowly disappear, the facts in our history will remain.” 

During this workshop, you will be guided by Tessa to create your own wearable artwork. Our hope is that you will take it out of the gallery and into the world—these are made to be worn, not stored. 

We ask that you wear this on Tuesday 21 October, the day He Whakaputanga was signed 190 years ago. Learn about He Whakaputanga through resources at Enjoy and by taking a tour of He Tohu at the National Library of New Zealand Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa. When people ask you what your 1835 artwork is about, tell them about this kaupapa and put the responsibility back on them to educate themselves about He Whakaputanga. 

All materials and light refreshments will be provided.

This workshop is held during the first day of Chapter 5: Tessa Russell Waitirohia and George Turner, Under the Pasture. Read more here.