One

One alludes to the earth and its minerals. It references the creation of Hine-ahu-one, the first woman, and the first human. The work is a process of self-reflection, combining the two ideas of One to investigate how I—as a wahine Maori—am able to trace my lineage back to the sands of the Hauraki coast. By using Opoutere, Onemana, Whangamata, and Whiritoa as a framework, my exploration of whakapapa between human and non-human is focused within specific landforms, allowing an intimate conversation between myself and these materials and sites. I do this by collecting shells, stones and driftwood; digging my hands into the sand to feel the coolness beneath; and swimming in the moana. One invites others to experience this process through sensory awareness and interaction.