BIOGRAPHY

Kia Ora! Ko Jak tōku ingoa! My name is Jak and I am a Māori student hailing from the far North. I’m working towards graduating with a Bachelor of Design, majoring in Media Design, by the end of 2020. I’ve also been a traditional artist, unaware that my skill set would translate well to the design industry, but Waikato has taught me that I can apply this knowledge in a new form!

For me, I’ve found that design is a language made up of visual communication! While yes, this is a broad explanation on the root word, let me explain. As a Māori person, I was surrounded by the language and culture growing up; and I found that we could communicate through art. In so many forms; dance, kowhaiwhai, haka, weavings, etc! So design at The University of Waikato has helped me harness these skills and apply them in the new media! Coming into design, I knew I wanted to be an illustrator but I didn’t expect to enjoy branding nearly as much as I did. Being able to create a project that shows a visual journey whilst having an end campaign was one of the most rewarding processes.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

What is To Tatou Ao?
Well, it’s an illustrated book that aims to show and display knowledge on Te Ao Māori; hoping to illuminate the reader on the sustainable practices in Māori communities! To Tatou Ao is an all-inclusive pukapuka (book) that uses the modern aesthetic style with traditional Māori ideas and methods of reusability and sustainability! By using my knowledge of fine arts and illustration, I’ve been able to achieve a style that is recognisable while retaining the mana and respect that is deserving of toi tuku iho (Traditional Art).

Picking up the book and looking inside is the best way of immersing yourself into the world of Te Ao Māori and experiencing it in all its beauty!