Raranga x Rimurimu is a photography exhibition showcasing natural fibre research led by Māia-te-oho through the Love Rimurimu project, on behalf of Taranaki Whānui ki te Upoko o Te Ika. This research investigates the use of fibres such as muka and pīngao and their potential use as a substrate to grow macrocystis pyrifera (giant kelp).

This research was born out of moemoeā to minimise the use of plastics and microplastics in the seaweed restoration space whilst also progressing the evolvement of mahi raranga, expanding our ancient practises through active kaitiakitanga.

Raranga x Rimurimu exhibits microscopic photographs of macrocystis pyrifera at both the gametophyte and sporophyte (visible blades) stages, attached to muka and pīngao rope.

Image

Māia-te-oho Holman-Wharehoka, Macrocystis gametophytes on muka rope, microscopic photograph