He Tatai Whetu Ki Te Rangi Mau Tonu Mau Tonu He Tatai Tangata Ki Te Whenua Ngaro Noa Ngaro Noa (1998)

(Gods Never Die – Only People Do)

Robyn Kahukiwa

Location: Upper ground, Johnsonville Library

The painting depicts Gods across the top six panels: Tane – God of trees and all the forests Haumia-tiketike – God of uncultivated foods Tangaroa – God of the seas Tāwhirimātea – God of the winds Rongomatane – God of peace Tūmatauenga – God of war. The three bottom panels depict figures that represent the tangata whenua, the people who carpet the earth.

This oil painting was created while the artist, Robyn Kahukiwa had a residency (studio space) at City Gallery Wellington in 1988. It was then included in a touring group exhibition of contemporary Māori art that went to various cities around the USA in the early 1990s. The exhibition was called Te Waka Toi. On its return to Aotearoa the exhibition was shown at City Gallery Wellington.

The painting depicts Gods across the top six panels:

  • Tane – God of trees and all the forests
  • Haumia-tiketike – God of uncultivated foods
  • Tangaroa – God of the seas
  • Tāwhirimātea – God of the winds
  • Rongomatane – God of peace
  • Tūmatauenga – God of war

The three bottom panels depict figures that represent the tangata whenua, the people who carpet the earth.

This artwork was purchased in 1994 and was previously on display for 26 years in the foyer of the former Wellington City Council building on Wakefield Street. 

About the artist

Robyn Kahukiwa (Ngati Porou, Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti) is a beloved New Zealand artist, award-winning children's book author and illustrator. She is one of New Zealand’s foremost Māori women artists living today. In her work she aims to give Māori an accessible, contemporary reflection of their culture.

Robyn Kahukiwa is considered an art icon and an international leader in indigenous art. She celebrates the values and strengths of Māori culture in powerfully spiritual depictions of life (wairua), women and children, myths and legends, and ancestors. Determined that her art remain accessible to all, she has published books and created a series of collectable prints.