Aroha Novak

Aroha Novak is a multidisciplinary artist based in Ōtepoti Dunedin. Her work is mainly project based, looking at socio economic issues and forgotten histories within a New Zealand context. Her practice encompasses sculpture, installation, photography, painting and sound. She graduated from the Dunedin School of Art in 2007 and has exhibited nationally since 2008.

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Novak added her artistic mark to our truck's public participatory artwork by painting large-scale motifs on the front door. The graphic design is derived from traditional tukutuku panels that adorn the inside of marae (Maori meeting houses). Each motif has a different story and meaning. The motif painted on the door is called 'poutama' and represents learning, the steps relating to the advancement and quest for higher knowledge.

 

As she said: "by placing this pattern on The Nomadic Art Gallery, it is acknowledging our indigenous Maori culture on a truck that is travelling the length of Aotearoa, and also creates a connection with the gallery's project of meeting, collaborating and creating new works of art with artists".

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