It’s time to pop into our treasured Tairawhiti Museum to get your contemporary art fix and take a look at the latest exhibition 'BREATHE'.
This breathtaking and breath-inspired collection by Maiko Lewis-Whaanga will be up until December 3.
Maiko opened her exhibition on Friday to a room of art lovers, friends and family. The packed room was welcomed by Maiko in traditional dress; a Japanese kimono and dragon headdress. With son Kiyoji at her side she told us about her art, that has become for her almost synonymous with her journey into embracing her Japanese culture, and began with her studies at Toihoukura. If Maiko's Japanese heritage is the vessel for this exhibition, her discovery of the importance and power of our breath is the content.
A multi-media experience, Maiko has collaborated with a number of artists to bring this collection to life. A short film features videography and music by Gana Goldsmith, photography by Tink Lockett captures the artist wearing intricate headdresses created by Sheryl Edwards, also featured in the exhibition. To complete the five sensory experiences on offer, delicious Japanese inspired tasters were created by Maiko's sister and mother. The loving support and involvement of her friends and family is clear throughout Maiko’s work, as they were in her words on the night.
The art of the Japanese Enso circle was demonstrated beautifully by Maiko on the opening night. Executed on the exhale, one simple stroke completes a circle and captures a perfectly imperfect moment in time.
Viewing Breathe in person you’ll be drawn in by the delicately folded papers, amazed by the hours of discipline, captivated by the teachings and you’ll leave a calmer version of yourself.
With this exhibition Maiko has created a space for calm, where we can all reconnect to our breath and also learn about the mindful sigh.
Don’t miss this stunning exhibition. You may also be interested in heading along for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony on November 4, or one of the mindful sessions for tamariki and parents (dates and times still to be confirmed).
The Tairāwhiti Museum is open Monday to Saturday 10am - 4pm, and 1:30 - 4pm on Sundays and Public Holidays. Entry is free for Tairawhiti residents.
For the full experience keep an eye out for the opening nights - take the family and make an evening of it!
Find the exhibition listing for Breathe here: https://tairawhitimuseum.org.nz/.../breathe-maiko-lewis.../
Stay up to date with Museum happenings on https://tairawhitimuseum.org.nz or the Gizzy Local Events Calendar gizzylocal.com/events