19 Nov 2013

Launch of book by artist celebrated

8:07 pm on 19 November 2013

National museum Te Papa is celebrating renowned Maori artist Cliff Whiting's launch of his long-awaited book, He Toi Nuku He Toi Rangi.

The artist and educator from Te Whanau a Apanui, who is widely known for his book illustrations and for designing the marae at Te Papa, received an acknowledgement when his book was launched at the National Library in Wellington last week.

Te Papa Kaihautu Arapata Hakiwai says Rongomaraeroa marae is a place of belonging for all people.

He says it reflects the nation's bicultural foundations while embracing everyone, and it's innovative in its story-telling and its design.

Cliff Whiting started his career as an artist, educator and arts administrator in the 1950s.

During the 1990s he played a pivotal role in the development of Te Papa, became its first Kaihautu, and was the mastermind behind creating Rongomareroa Marae on Level Four.