Claudette Collis

Aronga Toi: Kairaranga
Iwi: Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāi Tūhoe, Te Whānau ā Apanui, Te Aitanga ā Hauiti

Kaupapa:
Claudette Collis (Ngāti Raukawa, Te Aitanga ā Hauiti) is a dynamic Kairaranga who has exhibited her weaving in both Te Ika a Māui and Te Waipounamu. Claudette’s practice is deeply rooted in her whakapapa, upholding traditional Māori weaving and mātauranga Māori through contemporary artistic expression.

In her piece ‘Whiri Moana’ gradients of natural colour wash through the strands of muka, presenting themselves in shades of muted green, waxed yellow, and flecks of burnt umber. The textural quality is delicate and wispy in length, yet coarse and thick, similar to the unbrushed hair of a child with a wild spirit who does not wish to be tamed. These natural muka are presented in their raw form, untamed with the undeniable presence that could only be recognised in connection with Te Ao Māori. Each strand diverges from the other as streams would lead towards a common river; they are bound together in unity by a single plait.

Through the practice of weaving, Claudette explores the dynamic relationship between the tangible and intangible, where light, air, gravity, and tension are active participants. Her piece acknowledges our role as kaitiaki (guardians) of Te Taiao (our natural world), a manifestation of the interconnectedness of life.

‘Whiri Moana’ is adaptable, suspended at any height to evoke submersion, ascent, and shifting tides. Indoors, it casts moving shadows, responding to air currents. Outdoors, it interacts with wind, water, and light, reinforcing its connection to Tangaroa. Whether free-hanging, wall-mounted, or site-specific, it invites dynamic engagement with space.