Maori Masks

Ranginui and Papatuanuku Legend

Not long after becoming a volunteer with the project I began reading up on the Maori culture. I was so inspired by their culture, espically the legends of their Gods that it was then that I decided to base my final major project around the Maori culture.

Maori elder by Lindauer

The aspect which most inspired me was their social structure and religion. I read over a fair bit of text and also alot of imagery before deciding where to take my project.

I decided that it should be an aspect which can be used in a way to project the Maori culture which children could relate to. My answer: to design interactive props and costumes as learning tools for the children to be able to gain an understanding of the Maori culture.

The legend which I have used is called 'Ranginui and Papatuanuku' which translates into Father Sky & Mother Earth. Which really stood out to me as a beautiful way of seeing how the earth was made.

http://history-nz.org/maori9.html This link will lead you to a site which tells the myths and legends of the Maori people. You can read Rangi and Papa story.

Leather Masks by Petite Seamstress based on Rangi & Papa, for the Dorman Museum, Stories of The World.

As you can see from the picture above I designed and constructed masks based on the Maori Creation Story. Interprating each character creativily, mainly inspired by their role and New Zealand landcape. With of course a touch of creative flare!

If you have clicked the link and had a little read then you will know that are 8 main characters in the story. All of Rangi & Papa's children (masks) can be worn be by the children whom visit the exhibition this year. I made the decision not to allow the Rangi & Papa masks to be worn, simply out of respect for Maori cultre. Feeling that they are their Gods I thought it inapproaite to have children representing them in play. So, they will be mounted up in the story telling area, just out of reach of little fingers yet positioned well for them to enjoy them.

Meet The Masks

Tane, God of the forset, birds and insects

Tangaroa, God of the sea

Tu, God of war

Rongo, God of cultivated crops

Tawhiri, God of weather

Huamia, God of Wild food