' Te Ahi Ko Mau ' 2000 <Ask for Price List >
Korari, harekeke, /flax, kiekie, pingao, nikau, shells, stone - 300 x 180 x 70 cm
(Image: courtesy of Whangarei art museum & Manaia photography )

" I liked the thought of an airy column of woven pieces signifying the connection fibre is perceived to be, between the two worlds of Te Ao Turoa and Te Ao Waiua. The column is indicative also of the need to keep the spiritual flames of Maori culture alive - leading us from the richness of our past to the riches of our future - if we take full advantage of our individual and collective abilities and of the matauaranga, (knowledge) of our inheritance. "

Toi Te Rito Maihi - Born 1937 - Maori (Ngati Ipu, Ngai Te Apatu o Ngati Kahungungu, Ngati Hao o Taitokerau)

Trained as a teacher, Maihi has been a full time artist since 1976. As well as painting, printmaking , and writing, she has built a national and international reputation as an innovative exponent of weaving and fibre installation art, undertaking several large commissions including, the weaving for a new wharenui, being built by trustees of the Koheawhata marae. Mahi's latest project is the design of pavements as a part of a major sculptural project commissioned by the Australian parliament commemorating the Anzac Alliance, in Canberra. Maihi has participated in many exhibitions both nationally and internationally including Europe and the USA. Her work is represented in numerous public and private collections. " I see weaving as one facet of the patterns of life. They are as relevant to today's world as yesterday's. They are the link with the tipuna and - after all, it's to them I owe the richness of my life".