Popular NZ Artist Tame Iti Releases Artwork From Waikeria Prison

Not one to serve his time idly, as well as teaching te reo Maori to other inmates, Tame Iti has been busy putting brush to canvas in response to his recent incarceration. The result is a brand new work entitled “Te Whai A Te Motu” which will be displayed in the Artists' Fundraiser Auction taking place in Auckland on August 14th.

The controversial sentencing of Tame Iti and Rangi Kemara earlier this year has inspired over 40 leading contemporary artists to donate works to the auction that aims to raise money for the pair’s August 22nd Court Appeal.

Contributing artists include Shane Cotton, Emory Douglas, Dean Buchanan, Brett Graham, Charlotte Graham, Emily Karaka, John Miller, Neil Pardington, Saffron Te Ratana and Cut Collective. Art Curator Ngahiraka Mason says "The artists who have donated works each demonstrate a generosity that comes from reflecting on what's being asked of them; allowing them to show their humanity in a considered way."

Other initiatives aimed at assisting with the costs of the Court Appeal have included a fundraising dinner in Auckland last week, as well as custom designed T-shirts and a limited edition compilation CD available for sale featuring singer/songwriters such as Tiki Taane, Michael Franti, Maisey Rika, Emma Paki, Tama Waipara, Majic Paora and more.

Iti’s eldest son Wairere shares, “Dad is known and loved by many people from all walks of life... artists, musicians, politicians, Maori and Pakeha. Our whanau are so thankful for all of their support.” ARTISTS' FUNDRAISER AUCTION will be held at The Bizdojo Gallery, 155b Karangahape Rd (downstairs) in Auckland from 6-9pm on Tuesday 14 August - to view the catalogue visit http://www.ngaituhoe.iwi.nz/OurNation/AppealArtAuction.aspx (active 6th August).

CONSCIOUS UPRISING CD & FREE THE MOKO T-SHIRTS available at http://tikidub.com/LIMITED-EDITION-CD-and-TSHIRTS/View-all-products.html

Contact Ninakaye Taanetinorau on ninakaye@tikidub.com or 021 270 3002 for media enquiries