Materials: Acrylic, gouache, iron filings, oxide
Dimensions: 460x460 (framed)
Hine-nui-te-pō - The great woman of the NIght
In Māori legend, she is the goddess of the night and receiver of the human soul / wairua when the cross over into the first level of the underworld (Rarohenga) to ready them for the next stage of their journey.
Originally named Tikikapakapa, her name was changed shortly thereafter to Hine-au-tauria, daughter of Tāne Mahuta and Hine-ahuone. The old tales talk of Hine's marriage to Tāne, with whom she bore children. When she realises he is her father, she becomes deply ashamed, and goes down into the underground world, known as 'Te Pō' (the darkness). There, she becomes Hine-nui-te-pō, acquiring men's souls while her father Tāne tries to lead them to light.
The great mythology surrounding this approaches a highly problematic historical theme of rape, and the elevation of man, and the great shame and banishment of women for speaking out. HERstory has been used as an education tool in modern times and is a widely referenced story for historical toxic Patriarchy, and the victimisation and violence against women.
She is we, and we are reachng for better.