'A privilege': Huriana Kopeke-Te Aho

Discover intricately detailed illustrations inspired by the diverse beauty of Aotearoa's landscapes, flora and wildlife.

Step into the calming world of Te Ao Mārama — the world of light and understanding — through this beautifully illustrated colouring book by young Māori artist Huriana Kopeke-Te Aho.

Kete chatted with Huriana about the purpose and inspiration behind the illustration in Te Ao Mārama.

Kia ora Huriana, how very special to have a colouring book that’s inspired by and of Aotearoa. Can you tell us more about Te Ao Mārama, and the intent behind it?

When Allen & Unwin approached me to work on this book, we both wanted to create something that was specific to Aotearoa, and more specifically - to Te Ao Māori. We also wanted to make something that promoted hauora in many forms, to bring a sense of calm and peace to the people who use this pukapuka. There are 70 original illustrations in the book to colour in, the complexity of which vary throughout. They’re inspired by the stories of this whenua, of te ao Māori, of te taiao, of rongoā, of atua, of toi Māori in many forms. More than anything it is an expression of love and pride in this land, in my whakapapa and identity and in the beauty of the Māori world.

You were inspired by Witi Ihimaera Smiler, Robyn Kahukiwa and the protest movements of the 60s and 70s. How does this come out in your illustrations or your style?

I have always tried to approach my art style in a way that allows people to see themselves in it, in that way I think these inspirations have lended themselves well to that goal. I also believe in the importance of art to political movements, that when we create, we speak ourselves back into the world and into our communities. All of the art that inspires me is life affirming and hopeful, which has consequently inspired my style in many ways, as I want people to be able to relate to the things I make. I love the way Robyn Kahukiwa painted wāhine Māori, and that has been central to my practice as well.

How long have you worked in illustration, and what other projects of yours have been particularly special?

I’ve been working in illustration since around 2015-2016 so it’s been 10 years. I think every project that I’m trusted to work on is a privilege but I loved working on the Whakawhetai, Piki Te Ora and Māori Ora journals written by Hira Nathan and published by Allen & Unwin, I also got to illustrate the special edition US cover of The Whale Rider which was an amazing project, I also worked on the two Polynesian/Black panther murals with fellow artist and activists Chris McBride, Harata Tu Ake Sidney, Numa Mackenzie, Simon Endres and Toa Taihia; to work on such a large scale with people who value the role of art in political movements was a joyful experience. I’ve been lucky enough to be able to work with social movements, community organisations and people whose work I admire greatly; it’s the honour of my life to bring stories of resistance, creativity, takatāpuitanga and Te Ao Māori to the forefront in my work.

What is your favourite book from Aotearoa this year?

The Star Path by Witi Ihimaera Smiler. The Whale Rider has been one of my favourite books since I was a child and I was so excited to revisit that world, and I also had the huge honour of illustrating the book as well so that’s an added bonus.

And what is your next illustration project? Will it also be calming and inspire creativity?

I’m currently working on a couple of books, covers and internal illustrations and I do hope they inspire others to learn more about Te Ao Māori and engage creatively!

Te Ao Mārama is available in all good bookstores now.