Poi Ika (fish skin poi) - Long size | Collections Online - Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

item details

NamePoi Ika (fish skin poi) - Long size

ProductionMs Tangimoe Clay; weaver; 2020; Ōpōtiki

Classificationpoi

Materialsleather, muka (fibre), harakeke

Materials SummaryFish skin leather, whītau

Techniquestanning, braiding

DimensionsApproximate: 350mm (width), 2420mm (length)

Registration NumberME024658

Credit linePurchase 2020

Overview

The poi ika is a form of poi that was developed early 2019 by renowned weaver Tangimoe Clay (Te Whakatōhea).

These poi are constructed using the tanned skin of the terakihi with whītau (muka or New Zealand flax fibre) utilised to form the stuffing, handles and stitching. These poi emerged from a desire by Tangimoe to produce an eco-friendly poi utilising sustainable principles, local resources and recognise Māori and their connection to their land and environment.

Respect for the environment is important to Tangimoe Clay who advocates the use of plastic alternatives in her lifestyle and works.

This poi is from Tangimoe's personal collection and have featured in a demonstration at the launch of Whatu Kākahu in 2019 and toured to Norway and Hawaii later that year.

"I’m happy to have contributed to the evolution of poi in the history of kapa haka and Toi Māori. I encourage each iwi to use their own natural resources and fibre, to move away from plastics. To be the true kaitiaki, we as Māori are meant to be."

Tangimoe Clay, 2019.