MOKO-IA CREATIVE
We are multifaceted arts practitioners and makers with a deep passion for innovation and cultural integrity. Our work is grounded in mātauranga Māori principles, honouring traditional practices while embracing contemporary technologies to create projects that are both authentic and forward-thinking.
We thrive on collaboration—whether crafting a one-off handmade piece or working alongside architectural teams on large-scale projects, we apply the same creative principles and processes to ensure excellence and cultural resonance.
The studio is nestled within the landscape of the Waitomo Caves.
Beautiful native bush above and gigantic cave systems below provide endless inspiration.
Working in a special place like this challenges us to think more sustainably when making art.
DESIGN
Open Space Art
Our unique integrative design experience stems from a depth of expertise in public art fabrication, capability to be creative with a combination of materials, and an understanding of appropriate iwi cultural integration.
We bring the right combination of skills to curate amazing outcomes that sit well with the whenua of any project we we take on.
Create
Made by hand
We like to make things that are inspired by our lived experiences and what makes an impact on our wairua. We choose to work with a myriad of materials from stone, found objects, to digital illustration and surface pattern design. This often expands ideas beyond the studio into new opportunities and creative conversations.
Collaborate
Tino Rangatiratanga
Self Determination is why I am passionate about this form of art.
Uhi Tā Moko is the physical action of pushing ink into the skin with hand made tools. The ink accentuates the patterns as the visual story of your life inspiration.
The patterns and skin are a play on negative and positive space.
Recent Projects
Civic Building
Sir Howard Morrison Centre
Rotorua Lakes Council
Environmental
Otara Creek Bridge
Auckland City Council
Blog
Clematis Botanical
Floriography Collection This design is inspired by the Clematis vine that grew at my childhood home—a plant full of movement, fragrance, and quiet magic. Its delicate, interconnected vines always fascinated me, and every summer the blossoms filled the air with a scent...
How I got into Surface Pattern Design
How I got into Surface Pattern Design JUST ANOTHER AWESOME CREATIVE JOURNEY A little about me: I was born in Rotorua, in the heart of the Waiariki—Hot Springs of the Gods—and now live in the bush near the Waitomo Caves in Te Rohe Pōtae, the King Country. Creativity...
Pungarungaru
Pungarungaru Point Resolution Bridge Auckland City Council media release: 15 September 2014 Tāmaki Makaurau | Cultural Integration & Pattern Design This project was my second major cultural integration commission in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland. I was selected by...
To get in touch send an email to contact@moko-iacreative.co.nz