Ko te whāea te tākere o te waka - The mother is the hull of the canoe, the heart of the family

This artwork positions motherhood as foundation and vessel. A wahine, cloaked in kowhaiwhai motifs, carries her child upon her back. Their korowai binds them together - earthen tones grounding her, cool blues flowing across him. Her expression is steadfast, while the boy’s cheeky defiance interrupts with vitality, drawing us into a moment that is both tender and staunch. Two feathers in her hair connect her to tūpuna, while the silver-leaf ground suggests both resilience and fragility.

This work binds many themes of Josh’s 2025 collection — whakapapa, continuity, balance between softness and strength. The mother is both hull and navigator, carrying the child, and by extension the future, forward across ancestral tides.

Limited Edition Print

This giclée archival print comes from a hand-signed edition of just 25 per size. Printed on premium grade fine art paper, each work is crafted to last and available in a range of sizes to suit your space.

Details

Printed on Fine Art Etching Cotton Rag 330gsm Matte
100% cotton rag with a traditional printmaking etching texture
Acid-free base stock for longevity and archival quality
Matte finish that enhances tones, shades, and fine details

Designed to bring depth, movement, and a classic fine art feel to the work

Josh Kiwikiwi - Framed Artwork 'Ko te whāea te tākere o te waka' A2

Regular Price $3,500.00 Sale Price $3,500.00 Regular Price Sale Sold Out Unit Price /per

Regular Price

$3,500.00

Sale Price

$3,500.00

Regular Price

Sold Out

Unit Price

per