November 30, 2015
Reihana, Shortland honoured in Arts Awards
Lisa Reihana continued her charmed run this year by winning one of the top awards at the annual Creative New Zealand Te Waka Toi Awards held in Rotorua on Saturday.
The Auckland-based multimedia artist’s multi-screen video work in pursuit of Venus (infected) broke attendance records at the Auckland Art Gallery this year, and she will present an expanded version of the work as New Zealand’s contribution to the 2017 Venice Biennale.
She was awarded Te Tohu Toi Ke for making a difference to Maori arts.
The supreme award, Te Tohu Aroha mo Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu, went to weaver Matekino Lawless for her exemplary contribution to raranga over 60 years.
Rahera Shortland’s efforts over the past 40 years to make te reo Maori part of the everyday life of Maori people was recognised with Te Tohu Aroha mo Ngoi Kumeroa Pewhairangi.
Lifetime service awards went to Te Ariki Derek Morehu of Rotorua, Karanga Wineera Metekingi from Porirua, Pareaute Nathan from Ahipara, Huhana Morgan from Bluff and Maata Wharehoka from Parihaka.
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