RIEKO WOODFORD-ROBINSON
Light | Te Ao Mārama
NOVEMBER 1-14
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Black Door Gallery is pleased to present an anticipated solo exhibition by Wellington based painter Rieko Woodford-Robinson.
Rieko Woodford-Robinson is well known for her finely detailed portraits of anthropomorphic creatures, full of charm and endearing personality. For her 2024 solo exhibition, she focuses on Aotearoa’s native birds, portraying them with the dignity and reverence of formal portraiture, reflecting the deep connection these subjects bear to the natural world of Aotearoa. This approach aligns closely with the Māori concept of Te Ao Mārama—the world of light, understanding, and interconnectedness. In Māori cosmology, birds are not only physical beings but also hold spiritual significance, and they are seen as part of a larger family that includes humans, nature, and even the elements. This worldview sees everything as interconnected, where balance, respect, and harmony are paramount. Through her captivating portrayals of native birds, Rieko’s paintings do more than capture realism. Each subject is imbued with personal and symbolic meaning, referencing Māori mythology and whakataukī (proverbs). |
EXHIBITION CATALOGUE
Please note this exhibition has now sold out.
Limited Edition Prints are available. Hand signed by the artist and of beautiful quality.
The works available as prints are, online purchasing of Bellbird and Ruru Available now.
1. E ngā Kupu Ātaahua (Tūī )
2. He Maonga āwhā (Kiwi)
3. Ka Awatea (Bellbird)- View Print
4. Āke Āke Āke (Two Ruru/Morepork)- View Print
5. Tītitipounamu (Rifleman)
Limited Edition Prints are available. Hand signed by the artist and of beautiful quality.
The works available as prints are, online purchasing of Bellbird and Ruru Available now.
1. E ngā Kupu Ātaahua (Tūī )
2. He Maonga āwhā (Kiwi)
3. Ka Awatea (Bellbird)- View Print
4. Āke Āke Āke (Two Ruru/Morepork)- View Print
5. Tītitipounamu (Rifleman)
Rieko Woodford-Robinson
Kārearea (Falcon) Oil on Canvas Artwork Size: 900 x 650mm Framed Size: 1028 x 779mm 2024 $19,000 SOLD |
Rieko Woodford-Robinson
E ngā Kupu Ātaahua (Tūī ) Oil on Canvas Artwork Size: 900 x 650mm Framed Size: 1028 x 779mm 2024 $19,000 SOLD |
Rieko Woodford-Robinson
Tātou (Kererū, Kākā, Tūī) Oil on Canvas Artwork Size: 550 x 650mm Framed Size: 677 x 777mm 2024 $15,000 SOLD |
Rieko Woodford-Robinson
Ka Mua, Ka Muri (Kiwi) Oil on Canvas Artwork Size: 650 x 900mm Framed Size: 779 x 1028mm 2024 $19,000 SOLD |
Rieko Woodford-Robinson
Ka Awatea (Bellbird) Oil on Canvas Artwork Size: 500 x 400mm Framed Size: 630 x 527mm 2024 $9,500 SOLD |
Rieko Woodford-Robinson
Torete! Kaureke! Torete! Kaureke! (Kākāriki/Green Parrot) Oil on Canvas Artwork Size: 360 x 285mm Framed Size: 420 x 340mm 2024 $6,200 SOLD |
Rieko Woodford-Robinson
Kōtuku (White Heron) Oil on Canvas Artwork Size: 652 x 550mm Framed Size: 777 x 677mm 2024 $15,000 SOLD |
Rieko Woodford-Robinson
Te Tahā (Kākāpō) Oil on Canvas Artwork Size: 652 x 551mm Framed Size: 777 x 677mm 2024 $15,000 SOLD |
Rieko Woodford-Robinson
He Maonga āwhā (Kiwi) Oil on Canvas Artwork Size: 853 x 632mm Framed Size: 977 x 753mm 2024 $19,000 SOLD |
Rieko Woodford-Robinson
Tītitipounamu (Rifleman) Oil on Canvas Artwork Size: 200 x 150mm Framed Size: 402 x 352mm 2024 $4,000 SOLD |
Rieko Woodford-Robinson
Āke ake ake (Two Ruru/Morepork) Oil on Canvas Artwork Size: 400 x 500mm Framed Size: 527 x 630mm 2024 $9,500 SOLD |
ARTWORK TITLES AND MEANINGS
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Title: Kārearea
Bird: Falcon Meaning: Falcon Whakataukī: Haere i ngā waewae o Maru Translation: Follow in the footsteps of Maru |
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Title: E ngā kupu ātaahua
Bird: Tūī Meaning: Beautiful words Whakataukī: Me he korokoro tūī |
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Title: Tātou
Bird:3 birds Kererū, Kākā, Tūī Meaning: We, us, all of us Whakataukī: E koekoe te tūī, e ketekete te kākā, e kūkū te kererū |
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Title: Ka mua, Ka muri
Bird: Kiwi (profile looking back) Meaning: walking backwards to the future Whakataukī: Ka mua, Ka muri |
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Title: ka awatea
Bird: tītapu (Bellbird) Meaning: It will be dawn soon Whakataukī: Korihi te manu Takiri mai i te ata Ka ao, ka ao, ka awatea |
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Title: Torete! Kaureke! Torete! Kaureke!
Bird: Kākāriki (green parakeet) Meaning: Kākāriki's cry |
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Title: Kōtuku
Bird: White heron Meaning: White heron Whakataukī: He kotuku rerenga tahi |
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Title: He maonga āwhā
Bird: Kiwi (tall and dark) Whakataukī: He maonga āwhā Meaning: Calm after the storm |
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Title: Tītitipounamu
Bird: Rifleman Meaning: Rifleman Whakataukī: Ahakoa he iti he pounamu |
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Title: Āke ake ake
Bird: Ruru x 2 (morepork) Whakataukī: Āke ake ake Meaning: Forever |
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Title: Te Tahā
Bird: Kākāpō Meaning: The gourd Whakataukī: Ta te tamariki tana mahi wawahi tahā Translation: It is the job of the children to smash the calabash. |
EXHIBITION TEXT
Black Door Gallery is pleased to present an anticipated solo exhibition by Wellington based painter Rieko Woodford-Robinson.
Rieko Woodford-Robinson is well known for her finely detailed portraits of anthropomorphic creatures, full of charm and endearing personality. For her 2024 solo exhibition, she focuses on Aotearoa’s native birds, portraying them with the dignity and reverence of formal portraiture, reflecting the deep connection these subjects bear to the natural world of Aotearoa.
This approach aligns closely with the Māori concept of Te Ao Mārama—the world of light, understanding, and interconnectedness. In Māori cosmology, birds are not only physical beings but also hold spiritual significance, and they are seen as part of a larger family that includes humans, nature, and even the elements. This worldview sees everything as interconnected, where balance, respect, and harmony are paramount.
Through her captivating portrayals of birds such as the Tūī, Kākāriki, and Kiwi, Rieko’s paintings do more than capture realism. Each subject is imbued with personal and symbolic meaning, referencing Māori mythology and whakataukī (proverbs).
In the process of preparing for this exhibition Rieko researched whakataukī, exploring the concepts and meanings- then painted from these references. After completing her works, she collaborated with Adrian McCleland (Waikato-Tainui), who uncovered narratives within each painting and gifted names that reflect their essence. These stories become a compelling entry point to the artworks.
The painting Tātou, featuring the Kererū, Kākā, and Tūī, reflects the whakataukī: "E koekoe te tūī, e ketekete te kākā, e kūkū te kererū," meaning "The Tūī chatters, the Kākā cackles, and the Kererū coos." This highlights the unique voices of each bird, symbolising the value of diversity and individuality. The artwork reminds us that everyone has something distinct to offer, and we are all connected as part of a collective—we, us, all of us.
The artwork Ka mua, Ka muri, featuring a Kiwi in profile looking back, captures the essence of the whakataukī: "Ka mua, Ka muri," which translates to "walking backwards to the future." This profound saying emphasises the significance of reflecting on our past experiences and history to shape our future paths. In this piece, the Kiwi—a uniquely New Zealand bird—symbolises not only the nation’s identity but also the concept of introspection. The act of looking back signifies the importance of understanding where we come from, acknowledging our roots, and learning from past events, both personal and collective. This reflection is crucial for growth, as it allows us to glean insights from previous experiences, whether they are lessons of success or cautionary tales of hardship. The artwork serves as a reminder that while we must move forward, it is equally essential to honor and learn from the past.
The striking oval painting Torete! Kaureke! Torete! Kaureke! (Kākāriki /Green Parrot) is an example of an integration of a narrative-style proverb into a piece. As the whakataukī tells us, long ago, the Kākāriki had beautiful red feathers from the sacred isle of Tinirau, while the Kākā had duller brown and green plumage. Jealous of the Kākāriki's vibrant feathers, the Kākā mocked and confused the parakeet, then stole eight of its red feathers, hiding them under its wings. When the Kākāriki saw the Kākā showing off its new plumage, it cried out, "Torete! Kaureke! Torete! Kaureke!" To this day, the Kākāriki still calls out, lamenting the loss of its brilliant feathers. Rieko depicts the still vibrant Kākāriki with care and embodied strength, highlighting the Kākāriki’s cultural significance, strong character and resilience despite adversity.
The integration of Māori proverbs and mythological stories enriches the narrative depth of these works, connecting each bird to both the physical and spiritual realms. Her use of symbolism, combined with her technical skill, conjures a sense of reverence and care for New Zealand’s native fauna, viewed as taonga (treasures) in Māori culture. Her works not only celebrate the beauty of these creatures but also invite reflection on our shared responsibility to protect and honor them as part of a greater, interconnected whole.
Rieko artistic practice is a fascinating interplay between her Japanese heritage and her deep engagement with New Zealand culture. Born in Japan, her early experiences shaped her appreciation for nature and the nuances of beauty prevalent in Japanese art.
Since moving to New Zealand in the late 1990s, Rieko has drawn inspiration from the local environment and Māori narratives, creating a body of work that resonates on multiple levels. Her ongoing studies in Te ao Māori and Tikanga Māori along with collaborations with cultural advisers enrich her understanding of Māori customs and the significance of nature as a taonga (treasure), adding depth to her art.
In her pieces, the intricate details reminiscent of Japanese aesthetics harmonise with the vibrant qualities found in Māori traditions. This fusion highlights the beauty of diversity and the interconnectedness of cultural heritages. Rieko’s playful elements of kawaii alongside themes of identity invite viewers to engage with her work on both emotional and intellectual levels.
A portion of the proceeds from artwork sales will go toward bird recovery initiatives and various Māori art programs, reflecting Rieko’s deep commitment to preserving Aotearoa’s natural environment and cultural heritage.
Paintings by Rieko Woodford-Robinson
Paintings named by Adrian McCleland (Waikato-Tainui)
Text Edited and Compiled by Neala Glass
References:
Rieko Woodford-Robinson is well known for her finely detailed portraits of anthropomorphic creatures, full of charm and endearing personality. For her 2024 solo exhibition, she focuses on Aotearoa’s native birds, portraying them with the dignity and reverence of formal portraiture, reflecting the deep connection these subjects bear to the natural world of Aotearoa.
This approach aligns closely with the Māori concept of Te Ao Mārama—the world of light, understanding, and interconnectedness. In Māori cosmology, birds are not only physical beings but also hold spiritual significance, and they are seen as part of a larger family that includes humans, nature, and even the elements. This worldview sees everything as interconnected, where balance, respect, and harmony are paramount.
Through her captivating portrayals of birds such as the Tūī, Kākāriki, and Kiwi, Rieko’s paintings do more than capture realism. Each subject is imbued with personal and symbolic meaning, referencing Māori mythology and whakataukī (proverbs).
In the process of preparing for this exhibition Rieko researched whakataukī, exploring the concepts and meanings- then painted from these references. After completing her works, she collaborated with Adrian McCleland (Waikato-Tainui), who uncovered narratives within each painting and gifted names that reflect their essence. These stories become a compelling entry point to the artworks.
The painting Tātou, featuring the Kererū, Kākā, and Tūī, reflects the whakataukī: "E koekoe te tūī, e ketekete te kākā, e kūkū te kererū," meaning "The Tūī chatters, the Kākā cackles, and the Kererū coos." This highlights the unique voices of each bird, symbolising the value of diversity and individuality. The artwork reminds us that everyone has something distinct to offer, and we are all connected as part of a collective—we, us, all of us.
The artwork Ka mua, Ka muri, featuring a Kiwi in profile looking back, captures the essence of the whakataukī: "Ka mua, Ka muri," which translates to "walking backwards to the future." This profound saying emphasises the significance of reflecting on our past experiences and history to shape our future paths. In this piece, the Kiwi—a uniquely New Zealand bird—symbolises not only the nation’s identity but also the concept of introspection. The act of looking back signifies the importance of understanding where we come from, acknowledging our roots, and learning from past events, both personal and collective. This reflection is crucial for growth, as it allows us to glean insights from previous experiences, whether they are lessons of success or cautionary tales of hardship. The artwork serves as a reminder that while we must move forward, it is equally essential to honor and learn from the past.
The striking oval painting Torete! Kaureke! Torete! Kaureke! (Kākāriki /Green Parrot) is an example of an integration of a narrative-style proverb into a piece. As the whakataukī tells us, long ago, the Kākāriki had beautiful red feathers from the sacred isle of Tinirau, while the Kākā had duller brown and green plumage. Jealous of the Kākāriki's vibrant feathers, the Kākā mocked and confused the parakeet, then stole eight of its red feathers, hiding them under its wings. When the Kākāriki saw the Kākā showing off its new plumage, it cried out, "Torete! Kaureke! Torete! Kaureke!" To this day, the Kākāriki still calls out, lamenting the loss of its brilliant feathers. Rieko depicts the still vibrant Kākāriki with care and embodied strength, highlighting the Kākāriki’s cultural significance, strong character and resilience despite adversity.
The integration of Māori proverbs and mythological stories enriches the narrative depth of these works, connecting each bird to both the physical and spiritual realms. Her use of symbolism, combined with her technical skill, conjures a sense of reverence and care for New Zealand’s native fauna, viewed as taonga (treasures) in Māori culture. Her works not only celebrate the beauty of these creatures but also invite reflection on our shared responsibility to protect and honor them as part of a greater, interconnected whole.
Rieko artistic practice is a fascinating interplay between her Japanese heritage and her deep engagement with New Zealand culture. Born in Japan, her early experiences shaped her appreciation for nature and the nuances of beauty prevalent in Japanese art.
Since moving to New Zealand in the late 1990s, Rieko has drawn inspiration from the local environment and Māori narratives, creating a body of work that resonates on multiple levels. Her ongoing studies in Te ao Māori and Tikanga Māori along with collaborations with cultural advisers enrich her understanding of Māori customs and the significance of nature as a taonga (treasure), adding depth to her art.
In her pieces, the intricate details reminiscent of Japanese aesthetics harmonise with the vibrant qualities found in Māori traditions. This fusion highlights the beauty of diversity and the interconnectedness of cultural heritages. Rieko’s playful elements of kawaii alongside themes of identity invite viewers to engage with her work on both emotional and intellectual levels.
A portion of the proceeds from artwork sales will go toward bird recovery initiatives and various Māori art programs, reflecting Rieko’s deep commitment to preserving Aotearoa’s natural environment and cultural heritage.
Paintings by Rieko Woodford-Robinson
Paintings named by Adrian McCleland (Waikato-Tainui)
Text Edited and Compiled by Neala Glass
References:
- Kohere, Reweti T. He Konae Aronui: Māori Proverbs and Sayings.
- Riley, Murdoch. Māori Bird Lore.
- Brougham, A.E., and A.W. Reed. The Raupō Book of Māori Proverbs: Te Kohikohinga Whakataukī a Raupō.