Kaaranga ki te Ao
Call out to the world
The arrival facade expressions are a blend of integrated designs and standalone elements. Created to enrich the arrival experience and provide a main focal point of entry, prominent design elements in this work include the woven inspired timber cladding, and sand blasted detailing of the Pekapeka design (below).
This work has been collaboratively developed by Adrian Morton, Landscape Architect and Eugene Kara, Pukenga Toi to compliment and enhance the overall central Waharoa entranceway experience.
Artist: Eugene Kara
Iwi: Ngaati Korokii, Kahukura, Ngaati Tipa, Ngaati Kahungunu, Ngaati Paahauwera, Ngaati Tuuwharetoa, Ngaa Rauru Kiitahi, Te Aatihaunui-a-Paapaarangi
As Puukenga Toi, Eugene has lead the curation and co-ordination of cultural artworks for Hamilton Airport.
Eugene is a professional artist, specialising in public sculpture, lost-wax bronze casting and design. He has a particular skill-set that leads him toward cultural navigation, co-design and project management with a cultural focus. He is an advocate for integrating indigenous knowledge in regional blueprints.
Eugene is the co-founder of the first Maaori bronze casting studio at The New Zealand Maaori Arts and Crafts Institute, Te Puia, Rotorua.
He is an experienced art educator with a demonstrated history of working within education management. Further, he is skilled in management, strategy, Maaori tourism, project management, advocacy, art education and arts administration.
Eugene holds a Master of Fine Arts (MFA, Hons) from Elam School of Fine Art, University of Auckland.
