He Kaakano Ahau (I am a seed) is a collaboration of works by husband and wife duo Jason Nathan (Carver-pounamu)(Ngapuhi, Ngati Whatua), Kiri Nathan (weaving,fashion) (Ngapuhi, Tainui) and acclaimed photographer David K Shields. So far their vision has been a two-and-a-half year journey that has organically developed into many stories about Maori in today’s world. Each of the individuals shot for He Kaakano Ahau are of Maori decent, they share not only their physical beauty but also their whakapapa (genealogy) and pepeha. Each have been specifically chosen by Jason, Kiri and David to participate. He Kaakano grows in mana with each genuine interaction, korero (conversation) that evokes emotion by all involved, these rare and stunning moments now forever captured...
Kiri Nathan talks us through the project:
He Kaakano Ahau is a celebration and portrayal of the strength and beauty of our people set on our land. Crossing paths with David was one of those meetings that was destined to happen. This journey is raw and truthful in every sense. We have adopted (Whangai) David into our whanau (family) we love him!!...There have been so many occasions over the last few years working on this project that have brought grown men and women to tears, it has been and continues to be an exciting, honest journey that touches people’s hearts. Sarah Andelman of Colette Gallery Paris asked David to create some works and we are working towards having He Kaakano Ahau completed early 2014. This is an incredible opportunity, although it is essential to us that we show at home before taking the work offshore so we are currently in negotiation with the Auckland Museum to see what might be achieved as our official launch and first exhibition. Rachael and Grant have supported us and the work since the very beginning! It is the people who see something in you, something in your work that will always be held close to our hearts....Because of their aroha we are sharing a few moments with you
Nga Mihinui Kiri xxx
