Wellington Artist Celebrates Cultural Heritage Through Tīvaivai

Tehani Buchanan, a Wellington-based artist and educator, has taken a significant step in promoting the traditional art of tīvaivai, or Cook Islands quilting, through her leadership in a new exhibition. The exhibition, titled Tīpurepure Au Va’ine, will showcase the work of The Mamas, a group of Cook Islands women dedicated to celebrating and evolving this rich cultural practice. The exhibition is set to open on December 6 at the Pātaka Art + Museum.

Buchanan, who was born in Rarotonga and later moved to Wellington, has a deep-rooted passion for art that has been shaped by her upbringing. After her parents separated when she was three, she grew up influenced by her father, Tim Buchanan, a full-time artist in Rarotonga. She pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Māori and politics, balancing her studies with nursing a former boyfriend during his illness.

After teaching Māori in Auckland for two and a half years, Buchanan and her family relocated to Porirua in 2016. They aimed to purchase a home, navigating a challenging housing market. With hard work and determination, they acquired a four-bedroom, two-storey house originally built in 1957. Over the years, they have transformed the space, including converting a garage into a self-contained living area and creating a personal oasis in a spacious bathroom.

Buchanan’s home reflects her eclectic style, featuring vibrant colors and items from her travels, as well as indigenous art from her community. She emphasizes the importance of meaningful pieces, stating, “Items have to have a history or a story.” This ethos extends to her connection with other artists, fostering a supportive community around their respective practices.

In discussing her love for Porirua, Buchanan notes the representation of her culture in the community. “Home is where the heart is, and for us, that’s Porirua,” she explains. The area offers an array of amenities, including parks and cafes, which contribute to her creative inspiration.

Buchanan enjoys local dining spots, particularly Local Authority Specialty Coffee Bar and Cafe Kaizen within Pātaka Art + Museum. She often works from the museum, taking breaks to explore the exhibitions.

Active in her community, Buchanan and her fiancée, Julia Whaipooti, engage in outdoor activities such as walking the Te Onepoto Loop Track, a scenic 4.6 km trail, which offers breathtaking views and a connection to nature. Each morning, she walks through Bothamley Park before beginning her workday.

As co-curator of Tīpurepure Au Va’ine, Buchanan is committed to highlighting the cultural significance of tīvaivai and its evolution within contemporary art. This exhibition not only showcases the talent of The Mamas but also serves as a celebration of heritage and community.