Jacob Wilkins-Hodges

Jake Wilkins-Hodges is an artist, specialising in Tā Moko and digital art. He is a graduate from Toihoukura and holds a Bachelor of Māori Visual Arts. His digital illustrations often feature the pītau manaia kōwhaiwhai style of Te Tairāwhiti, a tradition that has been preserved across many generations. Jacobs’ practice is an extension of the dedication and tenacity of esteemed teachers and kaitiaki of taonga, such as Tā Derek Lardelli, Dr Sandy Adsett, and Principal tutor Steve Gibbs.

Kaupapa

Jacob’s ‘Maramataka’ series explores the spectrum of lunar phases, and how it impacts our internal wellbeing. The series upholds a connection to our past, acknowledging certain aspects associated with each lunar phase, such as certain phases to initiate new ideas, projects, actions, or when a call to rest is necessary. Ultimately serving as a deep reminder of the multi-faceted, natural environment and history we live inevitably connected to. 

This body of work draws on kōrero from Tūrangawaewae and Ngāti Porou,  inspired by pūrākau concerning the mischief Māui and the origins of whakairo. It also shifts from Jacob’s own internal observations of self in response to each lunar phase, often summoning pūrākau to further unpack an emotional, mental or physical state. This amalgamation of elements form the kaupapa of Jacob’s contemporary interpretation of Maramataka, creating a robust series of intentionally designed digital prints- ‘Tāwhirimātea’, ‘Kurawaka’, and ‘Māuiui’.