MOKO-IA CREATIVE
Multifaceted arts practitioners and makers with a passion for innovation. The creative principles and processes we utilise within each unique project, whether it be a one off hand-made piece or working collaboratively within an architectural team, is the same.
Design
We use simple and effective ways to visualise each brief, then construct the appropriate process to meet each project requirements, functionality, and aesthetic to ensure the final design communicates appropriately to the viewers.
Create
Every artwork we create is uniquely made to specific kaupapa narrative from each client. We work in a myriad of materials natural, man-made and found objects.
Collaborate
We bring an in-depth knowledge and understanding of design imbued with a mātauranga Māori lens. We have worked on multimillion dollar architectural and structural landscapes and heart warming projects that change and inspire peoples perspectives.
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. This often expands ideas beyond the first sketch.
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
Sir Howard Morrison Centre
Henriata Nicholas talks about the Sir Howard Morrison Centre cultural design Friday 11, September 2020 | Project Team | Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre The Sir Howard Morrison Centre sits on land gifted by Ngāti Whakaue. Over the last few months the project...
Architecture Award
Auckland City Council media release: 15 September 2014 Auckland's waterfront Point Resolution Bridge has won a prestigious international award - this year's International Architecture Award that honours new and cutting-edge design.The award, jointly run by Chicago...
A Woman’s Touch
by Donna Kerr for Mana Magazine: December 2006 Keone Nunes and apprentice Vaughn working on Henriata's leg - 2004 Some years ago Rotorua Artist Henriata Nicholas wanted more than anything to learn the art form of uhi.Uhi is the...