The Exhibition

This area is an exhibition catalogue providing insights into the artists intentions and how their work interprets the exhibition theme, the importance and meaning of Whenua Ūkaipō Connectedness, and the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs). The art documentation provides another entry point for contemplation and learning as an ongoing resource even though the exhibition has finished.

Whatungarongaro te tangata, toitū te whenua.

As people disappear from sight the land remains.

This whakataukī, Māori proverb, acknowledges our respect for Papatūānuku, our earth mother, and causes us to reflect on her wellbeing today.

Whenua Ūkaipō speaks of the direct connection one has to the whenua, land, and te taiao, the natural environment, as a source of sustenance and a sense of belonging.

Joining the global conversation to acknowledge the United Nations 75th anniversary, our exhibition engages with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. A global blueprint that strives to create a more sustainable future, these goals address the challenges ​we share, such as poverty, inequality, environmental health and climate change.

Whenua Ūkaipō Connectedness weaves together the artistic visions of Māori, Aboriginal, Kānaka Maoli - Native Hawaiian, Samoan, Fijian, Indian Australian and New Zealand artists under the korowai, protective cloak, of the United Nations.

Nō reira, nau mai haere mai, welcome. Please take this opportunity to pause, reflect, engage, discuss and consider making a stand for te taiao and future generations.

Mō tātou, ā, mō kā uri a muri ake nei.

For us and our children, descendants after us.

We would like to acknowledge the support received from the New York office of the United Nations 75th, United Nations Association of New Zealand, Toi Māori Aotearoa, Wellington City Council, and New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO. We would also like to extend our gratitude and thank all our supporters and partners.