Whenua through Whenua Jess Nicholson

 

Whenua through whenua explores Nicholson's feeling of connection to their tupuna when working with uku.
The work is a demonstration of mahi uku as a taonga tuku iho - ancestral knowledge that's been passed down, and connects us (Māori) to the past.
The ceramic chains incorporate materials such as kōkōwai, sand, seaweed, and recycled glass gathered from Ōtepoti to connect the art and artist with Kāi Tahu whenua. 
Jess Nicholson (Kāi Tahu, Pākehā) is the maker behind Sick Ceramics. They are a self-taught ceramicist from Whakatāne currently studying Art and Design in Ōtepoti. Nicholson's practice focuses on cultural and environmental sustainability. They incorporate local uku, kōhatu, sand, and ash into their work to connect with their Kāitahutaka and te taiao.
Exhibition beginning 25.5.24

Artists