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EMMY
BOYCE
Ko Emmy Boyce Toku Ingoa
I am a 35 year old European Māori Woman with ancestral decent to Ngāti Rarua Te Ati Awa and Taranaki iwi.
I am a local artist who finds inspiration in the natural beauty of Aotearoa New Zealand. One particular plant that captivates my attention is Tī Kouka commonly known as the Cabbage Tree.
Tī Kouka fibre has been used for hundreds of years to make Taura (rope) and Kupenga (netting) that won't degrade in salty waters.
Tī Kouka is strong enough to jam in law mowers yet the flower is delicate and fragrant which turns to bluish-white berries that birds love to eat.
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Tī Kouka has a trunk that is generous enough to feed a village providing Fibre, Kai, Weaving Materials and Rongoa as its young shoots and roots can be consumed which have both medicinal and culinary uses.
In my artwork, I aim to celebrate Tī Kouka with elegance and significance striving to capture its essence and convey its rich cultural and ecological importance.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Tī Kouka holds a significant place in Māori culture, possessing a long history of practical applications and symbolic meaning. The versatility and resilience of Tī Kouka has made it an enduring symbol of strength and adaptability with Its ability to thrive in diverse landscapes.
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As an artist, I am deeply inspired by Tī Kouka's cultural heritage and ecological role. Through my artwork, I aim to honor the tree's beauty by exploring its multifaceted uses and sparking conversations about the interconnection between nature and human culture I hope to create awareness and appreciation for Tī Kouka, my goal is to invite viewers to explore the beauty and complexities of this remarkable tree encouraging a deeper connection with the natural world around us all.
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