ABOUT US

Mike (Founder)

Self taught Contemporary Maori Artist, Mike Brown grew up in a creative whanau (family), moving between Te Kuiti, Hamilton in the early 1970's. He  has a passion for drawing, painting , sculpture and whakairo, (Maori wood carving).  His favourite subject is realism with contemporary elements. Mike continues to be busy with his art commitments and taking opportunities when they arise, like art competitions. Mike is committed to sharing his thoughts and ideas, through exhibitions, classes and demonstrations. Mike is extending on his own Matauranga Maori and experiencing a deeper appreciation for Indigenous knowledge. "In 2024, I enrolled at the Te Wananga O Aotearoa, at the Apakura Campus in Te Awamutu to learn Whakairo.  I learned a lot about my Maori culture, was shown and taught how to carve and the processes involved. I met other Tauira (students) and wonderful knowledgeable Kiaiako (Teachers). I came away with valuable skills, formed new friendships and a certificate in Whakairo L4."  

 

 

Reannon (co-Founder)

Reannon's creative journey started early, when she was a baby she got into her dad's artist paints. Needless to say painting was literally in her blood. Reannon would watch her dad paint and draw and marvel at the art work. It wasn't long before she was creating her own artwork and developing her own unique style. "I have been fortunate to have my Dad guide me through my own art journey". remarked Reannon, "This has led me to study art at both Rotorua and Tauranga Campuses." Reannon received her Diploma in Media Art and Design in 2020. This has inspired her to keep pushing forward and pursuing  her own artistic dreams. Reannon currently resides in Tauranga Moana and lives on the whenua in Bethlehem, with her whanau.