Neke Moa

born 1971, Tāmaki Makaurau; lives and works in Ōtaki

Whare Papaīra, Ngāti Kahungunu, Kāi Tahu, Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Tūwharetoa

Taonga are central to Neke Moa’s creative practice. Materials like stone, bone, shell, fibre, and feathers are carefully sourced and worked in a process guided by wairua that honours their origins and stories. Combining traditional techniques and contemporary approaches, Moa’s work reflects evolving Māori artistic narratives while remaining deeply connected to spiritual guardians. Moa has exhibited widely across Moana Oceania and internationally. In 2023, she won the Herbert Hofmann Prize and undertook a McCahon House residency. Her works are held by major institutions, including Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, the Dowse Art Museum, and the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. She is based at Ōtaki Beach.

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'I am not methodical in what I collect; I go with what I am gifted from Tangaroa and I follow it—follow it, putting the wairua in the forefront, instead of the hinengaro.'