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View more work from ARETA WILKINSON Nga Whatu Piataata : Stars In My Eyes

NGA WHATU PIATAATA: STARS IN MY EYES: by ARETA WILKINSON

Nga Whatu Piataata refers to "shimmering" or "bright" eyes, and in this case, these "whetu bling".
Making and gifting this whetu brings a shine to the eyes.
Enjoy wearing them or give to a star in your life.

INSTRUCTIONS on How to Make Your Own "Whetu Bling" :
Click to Download Instructions

Ngā Whatu Piataata: Stars in my Eyes is an ongoing relational art project focused on this sparkling satin whetu (star) . The project so far has expanded from being sites of gift giving (acknowledging the ‘stars in my eyes’), to sites of exchange (interactive exhibition installation where star brooches are exchanged for photos of star wearers), and sites of appropriate knowledge transfer (star making workshops). The kaupapa (objective) proposed is Māori, and the project considers practice principles of manaakitanga (showing respect & kindness), whanauangatanga (relationships) koha (reciprocal exchange), taonga tuku iho (treasures passed on), and he korerorero (discussion) from a collective paradigm.

The original form of the star comes from Maori raranga (weaving).
As you pass the knowledge on please acknowledge where it came from.