Matariki Wearable Arts Show Returns to Wintec

Matariki Wearable Arts Show Returns to Wintec

Since the idea originated at a weaving course five years ago, the Matariki Wearable Arts competition has grown to become a highlight on Hamilton’s arts and culture calendar.

The show, which expresses Matariki – the Māori New Year – through design, innovation and artistic flair, is now returning to its roots on Wintec’s city campus.

Matariki Wearable Arts organiser Korikori Hawkins says: “Matariki Wearable Arts is coming home. It’s being held at Wintec for the first time in five years and our wonderful event space, The Atrium, will give a new dimension to the show. Each year we step it up another level and this year will be no exception.”

There are three categories which aspiring designers can enter: Morph - morphing recycled objects into wearable Matariki themed garments; Matauranga - reflects learning and use of the natural environment; and Mythic - garments that are other-worldly and breathtakingly beautiful, reflecting the magic of Matariki.

As designers put their final touches onto their colourful Matariki creations, Wintec’s hairdressing and beauty students are busy practising hair and makeup styles which will be used on the models at the show.

There has been an increase in entries from last year with a total of 20 designers set to show off their fashion creations next Thursday. More than half of the entrants are Wintec staff or students.

First prize for each section receives $500 with a second prize of $300 and third prize is $100. The supreme winner takes home an additional $500.

The Matariki Wearable Arts show is being held at The Atrium in Wintec House at 6pm Thursday June 23 and is open to public. Admission is by donation of a non-perishable food item. All food items this year will be donated to Wintec’s student association.

The Wintec Matariki Wearable Arts show is sponsored by Te Puni Kōkiri and supported by Vidcom.

Background
At Wintec, Matariki is an opportunity for staff, students and whanau to come together and celebrate our unique Māori heritage and culture through a number of special events.

The Matariki Wearable Arts competition is the final event on Wintec’s Matariki programme which includes He Hokinga Mahara and Karanga Tau Hou. Held in early June, He Hokinga Mahara was a memorial service that reflects on the past year and acknowledges significant events that occurred and people that passed away throughout the year while Karanga Tau Hou was a celebratory breakfast heralding in the New Year.

Matariki is the Māori name for the small cluster of stars also known as the Pleiades or the Seven Sisters. The Māori New Year is determined by the next new moon after the appearance of Matariki which symbolises the beginning of a new life cycle and a time to reflect and celebrate.

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