Maori Mythology On View At Gallery ‘Iolani

‘Paikea,’ an image of one of the paintings by Tai and Kaaterina Kerekere that will be on view at Gallery Iolani’s contemporary New Zealand Maori art show starting Jan. 31. Photo from Bonnie Beatson.

By PAIGE TAKEYA

The bonds between Hawaii and New Zealand will get that much stronger when the Nga Uri o Tangaroa exhibit opens with a reception Jan. 31 at Gallery ‘Iolani.

Hawaiian studies students and faculty at Windward Community College are planning a special welcome and blessing for husband-and-wife artists Tai and Kaaterina Kerekere and a delegation of 23 Maori at the free public event, running from 4 to 7 p.m. in the gallery, which is located in the college’s Hale Palanakila complex.

Nga Uri o Tangaroa, which translates to “Descendants of Tangaroa,” is thematically organized around Tangaroa, the god of the seas and father of most oceanic life.

Genealogy, oceanography and Maori artifacts highlight much of the artwork. Paintings and silver jewelry designs from the Kerekeres will be on display. The exhibit runs until Feb 27.

The gallery is open from 1 to 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, and 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday. For more information, call gallery director Toni Martin at 235-9150.