This series of work is a returning of my exploration of Maori imagery that I began at the Raupunga native school of Ngati Pahauwera.
In those primary school days the medium was black greasy crayon on 'sugar grey' paper. Over the years I've explored a succession of themes, colour palettes and painting surfaces, however I've tried to stay true to what I have taken to be my obligations to the basic Maori design elements and cultural beliefs.
I love the beauty inherent in the simplistic koru arrangements found in Kowhaiwhai rafter patterns. I have often gazed up from the thin lumpy mattresses in many Marae and have been mesmerised by the flowing designs and their intimate colours.
The deep feeling expressed to us by our Tohunga artists in our youth left no doubt about the urgency to ensure commitment to our cultural identity. They saw the eroding of the language as a warning sign for the arts: also the title Kaho references in particular the chevron pattern arrangement of the wall and ceiling lining panels in early Wharenui. The Kaho were adorned with painted, carved and woven stories of Maori. These paintings in this exhibition carry many images I have grown up with. Some meanings known, others used as a point of balance or difference. I've restricted the colours to black, white and shades of red as a special tribute to the master artist, Pine Taiapa of Ngati Porou who gave us such passionate encouragement in those early years.

This work is about me being Maori.

Sandy Adsett 2003.