“Wai” is the Māori word for water, and in this circumstance “tā” means salt. The star is connected to the many kinds of food that are gathered from the sea and saltwater. Akapita has incorporated the whale tail into this design to represent the ocean. It is said that when Matariki sits just above the water horizon, it will significantly impact the ocean tides and floodwaters.
This piece is part of our Matariki Collection and will be on exhibit in our Rotorua studio until 3rd July 2022. You can reserve (pre-purchase) this limited-edition carving online, and it will be shipped to you as soon as the exhibition is finished. Included, is the original framed artwork, signed by Akapita Scally. The photo frame is (28cm h x 23cm w).This piece was designed by Akapita Scally, and crafted from New Zealand pounamu.