The Artistic Journey of Paratene Matchitt
Born in Tokomaru Bay, New Zealand, Paratene Matchitt was a sculptor and painter of Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Te Whakatōhea, and Ngāti Porou descent. His early engagement with art began in his father and grandfather's workshop at Edgecumbe. Following his education at St Peter’s Maori Boys' College, he attended the Auckland Teachers' Training College and later pursued a course in teaching arts and crafts at the Dunedin Teachers' Training College. His professional career included serving as an arts and crafts adviser for the South Auckland Education Board and later as an Arts Advisory Officer in South Auckland.
Matchitt's creative practice was characterized by the combination of traditional Māori art forms with modernist art. His work frequently referenced New Zealand history, specifically the Māori prophetic movements of the nineteenth century and the figure Te Kooti. He utilized symbols from Te Kooti's flag, Te Wepu, such as a crescent moon, a cross, a mountain, a heart pierced by an arrow, and a six-pointed star, in various works including Te Wepu Assemblage and Huakina.
Notable Works and Public Presence
Matchitt is recognized for several large-scale public sculptures, including the City to Sea Bridge in Wellington and the Aotea Centre in Auckland. His body of work includes various pieces such as:
His work has been exhibited in Hamilton and is held in collections such as the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. Despite his prominence in contemporary art since the 1960s, his legacy has been impacted by a criminal conviction in 2001, which influenced how curators and writers approach his work.
