Layers of Discovery

Layers of Discovery

Acrylic on MDF - 35 x 60 x 1.8cm

by RaeRae Hemara | Creative Tutu

Every layer tells a story, and every step is part of the journey.

This two-piece artwork explores the beauty of layers, textures and the different steps we take as we learn, grow and discover new possibilities.

Created during my first tutu (experimenting) with textured paint, this piece was an opportunity to try something different, play with new techniques and see where the creative process would take me.

Through repeating triangles, raised textured lines and different shades of green, each layer represents a step in the journey. Some steps are simple, others add depth and complexity, but each contributes to the bigger picture.

The patterns build upon one another, reflecting how our experiences, connections and lessons shape who we are. Just as each layer of paint adds something new, every step we take creates a foundation for what comes next.

The two panels are separate yet connected, reminding us that although our journeys may take different paths, the layers of our experiences can still bring us together.

A reminder that growth happens one step, one layer and one discovery at a time.

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The Artist:

RaeRae Hemara | Creative Tutu

Samoan, Ngāpuhi-nui-tonu, Ngāti Wharara, Ngāti Kaharau,Te Uri Taniwha and Ngāti Hineira.Bay of Islands, New Zealand

I don't Consider myself as an Artist but more of a "Creative tutu!" I dabble in all things artistic, crafty and creative. - Painting, pastel, charcoal, arts, Cake making, resin - if its Crafty I have probably had a tutu.

Born into an artistic and creative whānau, My Nana was my greatest influence, nurturing my creativity, identity and love for all things great or small from an early age. I was inspired by Aunty Rhonda Halliday, an uku artist, and influenced by my late mother, Moana-Maree Hemara, a Māori weaver whose mahi helped shape my passion for Māori art.

Working primarily with acrylic paints, I explore customary Māori design elements through monochromatic tones.

Drawing on pūrākau, pakiwaitara, relationality, and the Indigenous whakaaro that everything is connected, my work creates visual narratives that carry our histories and stories into the present.

I am drawn to intricate cut-outs and shaped forms, exploring the relationships between individual elements - how they fit, overlap, connect and interact within a composition. Through this process, my work considers whakapapa and interconnectedness, bringing together layers of form, story and identity.

Now, as a māmā of three young babies I believe in involving my tamariki in all that I do, and this has naturally become part of my artistic practice.

The majority of my works involve my babies in some part of the creative process, allowing their minds, ideas and presence to become part of the finished mahi.

Because I involve my three tamariki as much as I can in all of my artwork, please expect a few flaws, crooked lines and little imperfections along the way! These are the parts I treasure most.

They add that extra special touch and remind my babies that even in our imperfections, we can create something beautiful. What we may see as flaws, others may see as beauty!! And that's what makes each piece so special!

Fo this is also about whakapapa — passing creativity, mātauranga, how different things connect, influence, belong to and exist alongside one another and a love for toi from one generation to the next.

my newer works proudly carry the words:

“Made with love by Te Awa, Rereātea, Kataraina & RaeRae Hemara"