Oko whakairo

When you work with our people, your art is with the people. When you take yourself away, it can become too esoteric … I was determined that the foundations were laid so that people could see linkages with tradition.

Manos Nathan

As a skilled carver and designer, Manos Nathan saw no barrier to putting designs from whakairo (Māori carving) onto clay. His real aim, though, was to create work that would have resonance and relevance in Māori culture. He began creating waka taurahere tangata – pots following the Māori custom of burying the afterbirth of a child – and ipu pure to hold water for cleansing-related ceremonies.