Pacific Memories
The artist, Tui Hobson, selected only a few symbols to express her message and thoughts to us, both as a community and as individuals. Each element is simplistic yet bold and combine a clear and impressive manner. Mounting the piece with the narrower end at the base and the thicker end facing upwards, adds to its uniqueness.
This pole represents Māori and Pacific cultures and is dedicated to the artist's mother and grandmother who are very strong role models in her life.
The native timber for this Talking Pole was donated by Te Putahitanga O Nga Ara Trust.
| Location | Leith Place Talking Pole Forest |
| Materials | Mātai, mounted on a concrete base with steel supports bolted to pole |
| Created | 2004 |
| Artist | Tui Hobson |
| Definition of Name | Pacific - Pacific Ocean or its Islands
Memories - The power or process of reproducing or recalling what has been learned and retained especially through associative mechanisms |
| Definition Interpretation | Thinking about and reflecting on Pacific Ocean countries or Island cultures. |
Materials
Mātai heartwood can be a yellowish colour when cut fresh, although it darkens to a dark reddish brown when exposed to sunlight. The timber could be confused with Rimu on first look, but Mātai wood tends to have more pronounced growth rings. Mātai is also strong smelling when first cut.
Mātai can be found extensively throughout lowland forests, with heights of up to 25-30 metres recorded. Older more mature Mātai is a sought after wood as it is one of the highest and finest grades of native species. Mātai is revered for high yields of heartwood timber that is clear and has an attractive finish.
Artist Notes
Tui has been involved in carving/sculpting for many years.Her carvings range all the way from smaller more intimate pieces to larger outdoor sculptures. Tui likes to use a variety of different materials in her works, from recycled native timber, set or cast glass, hard stone and metal.
The materials she uses and works with are responsive to the forms she uses and are often infused and combined with twist and aesthetic.
The wooden material Tui uses for carvings/sculptures (Tōtara, Kauri, Rimu, Pōhutakawa and Mātai) excite her due to the fact that each has its own unique grain, colour and history.
