Wednesday 30 September
4pm - 8pm, The Gantry at Silo Park
Whai, Whānau & Pompoms
Photographer: ralph brown
Join artist Janine Williams and crochet extraordinaires Lissy and Rudi Robinson-Cole at Silo Park these school holidays, for a unique, free afternoon and evening of creative making, games, music and shared kai, as we celebrate Janine Williams’ captivating light-based artwork 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘪.
Inspired by the traditional Māori string game, 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘪 reflects the connection between ancient knowledge and contemporary innovation. Join the artists in making colourful pompoms using vibrant wool, then as darkness falls, see your creations transform under UV light.
As evening falls gather around the fire for music, storytelling, and conversation, and share in the spirit of manaakitanga with soup and fry bread. Feel free to bring a favourite dish of your own to contribute to the communal table.
To mark this unique collaboration between artists and community, 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘪 will be transformed in Lissy & Rudi’s signature pink.
This special, free event offers a unique opportunity to experience Whai in a new light while celebrating Māori culture, creativity, collaboration, and community.
Presented by Auckland Urban Development Office in partnership with Auckland Council Public Art.
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Artist Biographies
Janine Williams (Ngāti Pāoa, Ngāti Whātua ki Kaipara, Ngāti Mahuta) is a contemporary wāhine Māori artist based in Tāmaki Makaurau. She is passionate about creating artworks that reflect mana whenua narratives and tell the stories of people and whenua.
https://www.charlesjaninewilliams.com/
Lissy Robinson-Cole (Ngāti Hineamaru, Ngāti Kahu) and Rudi Robinson-Cole (Waikato, Ngāti Pāoa, Ngāruahine, Te Arawa) are celebrated contemporary Māori artists known for their colourful large-scale crochet installations that foster joy, connection, and community. Their collaborative practice blends creativity, whakapapa, and storytelling, inviting people of all ages to come together through art and shared experiences.
