Derek Lardelli

"The designs are based on traditional patterns, with leeway for artistic expression. Our ancestors had a high regard for creativity, and the right of the individual to create something new on behalf of the tribe."

Tribal affiliation: Ngati Porou, Rongowhakaata, Ngati Kanohi (Ngai Te Riwai), Ngati Kaipoho (Ngai Te Aweawe).

Derek Lardelli is regarded as one of Aotearoa New Zealand's finest tā moko artists. For a long time, Derek has been prominent in explaining the revival of the art and its spiritual significance to audiences throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and the Pacific.

Each moko he creates is carefully researched to reflect the whakapapa, history and particular interests of the person receiving it. Although he uses modern electrical equipment his work reflects the deep respect he holds for the traditions of his ancestors.

Derek's work as a practising tā moko artist is only one of many roles that he fulfils as a visual artist, carver, kapahaka performer, composer, graphic designer, researcher of whakapapa, tribal history, and kaikorero. Derek is also a Kapa Haka tutor for the Whangara Mai Tawhiti Cultural Group.

With an educational background in teaching, fine arts and classical Māori literature, Derek is currently principal tutor at Toihoukura (Māori Arts Department), Tairawhiti Polytechnic, Gisborne.

He has facilitated and participated in numerous exhibitions and workshop programmes both in New Zealand and overseas. Most recently, he was director of the Moko Delegation to the South Pacific Arts Festival, Noumea (2001), exhibited his work in the NZ High Commission Exhibition in Singapore (2002) and in Kura, Contemporary Māori Exhibition, Balance House, Belfast (2000).

Derek is the chairperson of Te Uhi A Mataora Tā Moko Arts collective and is also a trustee of Toi Māori Aotearoa. The Listener Power List 2008 recognised him as one of New Zealands most influential artists and placed him at number two on the the list.

Additional links:

Ta Moko - A history on skin Event at Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington, March 2004

Nga Taonga o Aotearoa: treasures of New Zealand - Maori art at the 8th Festival of Pacific Arts in Kanaky/New Caledonia (Oct 2000)
Profiles of the Maori artists travelling to the festival

The New Zealand Listener Power List: Arts, Culture and Entertainment 2008