Gina Ropiha (Melbourne, from Hawkes Bay NZ, Ngati Kahungunu, Ngati Raukawa)
Ako Marama / Teaching in a journey of enlightenment  / La enseñanza en un camino de iluminación

Function Ako Marama aims to ask us to think carefully about the course of our lives and acknowledge the important contributions that people make in shaping who we are or will become. It is hoped that the necklace will bring a positive outlook and goodwill to those it comes into contact with. Activation Ako Marama has been created to recognise the significant influence of a mentor, Marty Vreede, on its maker. After time with Ako Marama, Marty will leave a trace on the necklace. He will then bestow the necklace on someone who he thinks has played an important role in his life. Subsequent recipients will continue to alter Ako Marama and pass the necklace on until its appearance has completely changed. Materials porcelain, bone and English pine Engage Email for details What inspired Ako Marama

• 07 Feb 2012: Thank you - Ako Marama
  Before I post anything else I think it’s really important to say some thank yous. So thank you to Helen, Nicola, Nathan and Feigh for reading and proof reading John for photographs Craig for preparing and donating materials Sheldon for … Continue reading →
• 05 Feb 2012: Marty Vreede - Ako Marama
  So … this is Marty! Marty is the Senior lecturer in Printmaking at the Quay School of the Arts in Whanganui, New Zealand.  He is also a practicing artist and tireless promoter of printmaking in New Zealand. In 2010 Marty was … Continue reading →
• 05 Feb 2012: What does Ako Marama mean? - Ako Marama
  A few months after receiving the necklace Marty sent me a letter to tell me what he had named the necklace and the project as a whole.  This is what he said: The kaupapa [topic or proposal] of this project … Continue reading →
• 05 Feb 2012: How the necklace project works - Ako Marama
  How the necklace project works – guidelines  I proposed to make a necklace that addresses the demands of everyday life in a manner that acknowledges people’s ability to positively influence each other.  I also wanted the necklace to promote awareness … Continue reading →