Ranui Ngarimu
"I have learnt from and been inspired by many weavers over the years. I am committed to working in traditional and contemporary Maori weaving, preserving the past and sharing this knowledge with others."
Ranui Ngarimu is a weaver, living in Christchurch. Her tribal affiliations are to Kati Mamoe; Ngai Tahu; and Ngati Mutunga.
From a wide range of interests and hobbies, weaving is Ranui's first love. Her skills and knowledge that she has acquired come from her own iwi (tribe) and hapu (sub-tribe) as well as master weavers Diggeress Te Kanawa, Te Aue Davis, Pipiwharauroa Pene, and her late husband's family.
Ranui uses traditional Maori technology. She researches techniques and sources the natural fibres and materials that her Ngai Tahu ancestors used to make their protective clothing as they crossed the South Island's mountain ranges.
As well as being a skilled weaver, Ranui is concerned about the preservation of intellectual property of weavers and traditional terminology associated with Maori weaving.
Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally and she has also undertaken work on commission. She lives and works in her own tribal area in Christchurch where she is a mother and grandmother.
Links
Ranui was an exhibiting artist in 'Toi Maori: The Eternal Thread' exhibition at the Burke Museum in Seattle, Washington, USA
Read more about 'Toi Maori: The Eternal Thread' international touring exhibition of Maori weaving.
Ranui's involvement with the Nga Pakihi Whakatekateka o Waitaha Cultural Council Trust
Ranui recently co-wrote a new book on Maori weaving, The Art of Maori Weaving, published by Huia Publishers
Ranui's work is featured at Te Ariki Gallery in Geraldine