He Toi Whakairo: The Art of Māori Carving (webinar)

Join Toka Tamihere, Graphic Designer, and Shenae Heswall, Spatial Designer, as they discuss the creative process and design development behind the new exhibition, He Toi Whakairo: The Art of Māori Carving, now open at Te Papa Tongarewa in Te Whanganui-a-Tara.  

Featuring more than 140 whakairo, the He Toi Whakairo traces over 700 years of carving traditions, from their Pacific origins to contemporary practice. In this webinar, Toka and Shenae will share the ideas, design development, and creative decisions that shaped the exhibition. From its bespoke visual identity and distinctive colour palette to its narrative-led spatial journey, the design sought to challenge stereotypes, celebrate ancestral knowledge alongside contemporary innovation, and enhance the stories and beauty of whakairo.

About the presenters

Shenae Heswall is a Spatial Designer who has spent the past six years designing engaging and meaningful visitor experiences of all scales across Aotearoa.

Toka Tamihere is a Graphic Designer whose practice explores the relationship between te ao Māori and contemporary design, drawing on cultural knowledge, visual storytelling and creative expression to develop meaningful and considered design outcomes.