Tag Archive for: Award winning photographer
Maharatia Clarke
The tattoo (Tā moko) on my left shoulder, gives me the strength to stand tall and take pride in what I do. With my family on my chest and my iwi Tainui, I will make my mark here in this universe and be sure to make my presence well known.”
Iwi are the largest social units in Aotearoa Māori society. The Māori-language word iwi means “people” or “nation” and is often translated as “tribe” or “a confederation of tribes”.
Photography at UXBRIDGE: Sharp focus on Africa
From here to Africa is a collection of captivating portraits of the Maasai people from Tanzania.
“I found myself deeply inspired upon meeting the Maasai tribe and realised the opportunity to document their unique culture which is being eroded by Western influence and modern technology,” said Wittenberg.
“On a personal level, this reminds me of the true value of photography: preserving memories in order to relive special stories and pass them on to others. Through this series of carefully composed photographs, the Maasai people can share their rich culture with the world.”
The collection is presented in a film-noir monochrome, capturing these portraits in a classically timeless style; lending a unifying appearance that emulates analogue lithographic technique, she said.
“I wanted viewers to focus on the humanity aspect of each portrait: expressions and body language, shapes and forms. I eliminated distracting colours to ensure that viewers focus on the people within the photos and make emotional connections with these individuals,” said Wittenberg.
“I aim to depict the Maasai culture in an authentic and honest way, using a clear narrative style which shows people the significance of their culture, as well as their individual personalities.
“My goal is to provoke your imagination regarding the traditions of the Maasai people and the stories behind their portraits.”
In sharing this portfolio, Wittenberg encourages viewers to show tolerance, to accept all people and to recognise the value of cultural diversity.
“We would all experience an enhanced sense of community if we took the time to appreciate interactions which allow us to discover the world beyond our familiar boundaries,” she said.
From here to Africa was also selected as a featured exhibition at the 2020 Head On photo festival in Sydney.
The show will run from February 28 to April 24 at Uxbridge Arts and Culture, Howick.
Opening Event: Friday, February 28 at 7:30pm with keynote speaker Sir Bob Harvey.
Artist Talk: Saturday, March 7 at 11am.
Malcolm Smith Gallery
Uxbridge Arts and Culture,
35 Uxbridge Rd, Howick
FRI – MON 10 am – 4pm
TUE – THU 10am – 9pm
Admission is Free
Mia
“NOTHING last forever not feelings not your bad situation nothing !! I’ve had this weird negative outlook on New Zealand for a long while I will always be a kiwi and appreciate the natural beauty of the country but the economy is seriously fucked and tall poppy syndrome is all to real stop cutting each other down !! be happy for other people’s success instead of been jealous or trying to find a way to exploit them personally when someone tells me about something good they are doing or something they are proud of I am genuinely happy for them and praise their efforts or even offer my help. this year I’ve walked away from people I thought would be in my life forever but have been rewarded with New beautiful souls who add to my life in a positive way. Often now when I meet new people I here whispers of oh she’s a rich kid or she’s got it easy. I just smile because the reality is I’m not “from money”
I made money my first job was actually McDonald’s it taught me lots I learnt to treat people with respect no matter what they looked like because hey everyone eats at maccas , millionaires the homeless everyone .. eventually I became a sex worker it got more hate than anyone I know for doing the oldest trade in the world. I invested wisely and it paid off I retired at the start of the year brought houses mortgage free and now I am working on projects so I can employ and help others. I did exactly what so many said I could not .
Exactly 4 years ago today I was going to kill myself I had no support no one to turn to for some absolute miracle I didn’t I pulled myself out of the shit I was a junky a meth addict I couldn’t see the light so I made my own. I always remember that is where I came from try stay humble and appreciate what I have Check up on your mates praise people for been good and get off your arses and do something instead of been jealous today I am 4 years meth clean and fucking proud “