When we think of raranga and whatu (weaving) as artforms it is most often associated with women where the skills and techniques have been passed down maternal lines for centuries. But what is largely unknown is that men have also practiced these arts and in some cases have excelled in their chosen artform.

Co-curated by Mark Sykes (Ngāti Rangitihi, Ngāti Porou) and Karl Chitham (Ngā Puhi, Te Uriroroi), this exhibition presents the work of a group of kairaranga tane (male weavers) making work for whānau (family), friends and collectors in Aotearoa and further afield. The exhibition features diverse work across whatu, raranga and tāniko including kākahu, kete, tukutuku, kupenga and hīnaki.

Hao literally means to gather within a net and in this instance is also a metaphor for the bringing together of a group of kairaranga tane from across Aotearoa. The title also makes reference to some of the historical Māori practices, such as kupenga (fishing nets) and hīnaki (eel traps) that were historically associated with men’s roles and are are also included in the exhibition. 

The exhibition includes work by Hamuera Robb, Cori Marsters, Wi Pohatu, Nigel How, Tuwhiti Happy, Karl Leonard, Matthew McIntyre Wilson, Pikirangi Daniels and Te Weu Jobe.

Hao is a continuation of a project curated by Sykes and Chitham for Whakatāne District Museum and Gallery in 2008 called New Threads: Contemporary Male Weaving. Twelve years on this exhibition acts as an opportunity to reflect on the shifts that have occurred over that time and to celebrate the incredible work being produced by these talented individuals today.

This exhibition is a partnership between Te Kōputu a te Whanga a Toi - Whakatāne Exhibition Centre and The Dowse Art Museum.