MāoriGrl combines installation and video game to reinvent the story of Hine-tītama /Hine-nui-te-pō, the woman who became the goddess of death in Māori mythology. The game MāoriGrl serves as a contrasting visual reference to this story, with bright colours, a nostalgic wide-screen format, and abstract landscapes to create a naïve atmosphere in the gaming world.
The title and essence of the game itself is derived from Aroha Yates-Smith’s thesis Hine, E Hine, in which she researched different Māori goddesses from pre-colonial times and sought to further support a spiritual connection back to these atua wāhine.
MāoriGrl will open on Saturday 23 June, 2pm in the Main Gallery.
This exhibition is part of the Auckland Matariki Festival 2018.
