Matā

Matā, or obsidian, can be used to sever the umbilical cord upon birth, and is buried with the whenua in a place that becomes one’s tūrangawaewae. With this in mind, Taupaki collects minerals and objects from places, or in reference to places, that are significant to her identity as a wahine Māori. Creating hammocks, beds, and appropriate display stands, Taupaki acts as kaitiaki for these non human beings, and allows them to take shape of their own accord. Ties to the whenua as both placenta and land are brought forth through reciprocal nurturing and memory.