Kia ora everybody,
Its been a while… which is the usual opening of late due to my change in jobs and lifestyle but I am making an effort to change that and with that reinvent the scope a little bit as far as my choices and hopes for my future career.
I hope you have all been well and keeping away from those nasty bugs that have been floating around as well as the endless amounts of pollen making their way into your nostrils, lol…
Oh how times have changed and the past few months have seen the Tangi toll rise above its usual numbers this time of year. We have farewelled some great leaders of our time through family and the Arts family of New Zealand, Manos Nathan and Colleen Ullrich both founders of Nga Kaihanga Uku (Clay Group of NZ) may they rest peacefully and let the knowledge and seed they planted in many peoples hearts flower and bloom and continue on their legacy of Uku forever.
I feel very privilledged to have met and got the opportunity to work with Manos Nathan during my time studying at Toihoukura. He was a very Great man, a gentle soul and a beautiful teacher. Thank you for your time, patience, advice and sharing your expert knowledge with us. Rest Easy Angels of Light XO
Now… what have I been up to. Not a lot to be honest but then quite a bit to be frank. Just over two months ago I had presented a finished contemporary Hieke to my cousin for his 21st birthday. I made it on behalf of my mother for him and we (Uncles, Aunties, Cousins) as a family presented it to him along with a korero and waiata for him. This was a huge occasion for our family to come together.. both sides.. Te Whanau a Wi Pere & Nga Uri o Te Kooti – a time to be celebrated and remembered for this does not happen very often – tying together our blood connections of old and new. Making peace with both old and new as well as supporting our whanau to celebrate Tylahs achievements. Here are a few images of his Hieke. The colours vary a little due to light editing of photos.
A lot led up to the two months prior to this occasion as well as the two after and just in time too as the whanau are orderly planning Hui to commence soon from both parties which will happen before the 150th year commemorations since the arrival of Captain Cook to Turanganui a Kiwa and the great battle at Waerenga a hika Pa where a Memorial will be erected in November this year to acknowledge the event and people involved in efforts to bring peace to the land.
Take it easy. Keep warm. Thanks for joining.
Nga mihi
Lee 🙂
Leeana Galloway 