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He Maumaharatanga - A Woven Tribute is an exhibition of contemporary Maori weaving by Kohai Grace (Ngati Porou, Ngati Toa, Te Atiawa, Ngati Raukawa) and the 1920s archival film which inspired her work. Kohai Grace describes her work as “bringing together the old and the new, in celebration of weaving of the past, present and future.”

She says weaving is continually evolving as an art form, with weavers experimenting and inspiring each other to produce new works.

"The purpose for the weaving has changed, more aesthetic than functional and therefore a new appreciation for weaving as an art form is emerging."

He Maumaharatanga - A Woven Tribute is at The Film Archive mediagallery in Wellington from May 21 - June 20.

During what hours of the day do you feel most inspired?
Early morning or late at night.

How would a good friend describe your aesthetic or style?
Not sure. 

What aspect of your creative practice gives you the biggest thrill?
Trying out ideas and something eventually working

How does your environment affect your work?
I could weave anywhere, but my work probably reflects the environment I work in which is mostly at home in my own space, by the sea and surrounded by whanau.

In your upcoming exhibition at the Film Archive mediagallery you're screening some archival film footage of weavers in the 1920s. Film and flax would strike some people as an unusual combination. Tell us a bit more about this and why you thought it important to include in your exhibition.
The films are an integral part of the exhibition. The content shows Maori during the 1920s working with flax and using woven items in their day-to-day activities. The films inspired the works of the exhibition and helps express the theme of the past, present and future of our weaving traditions. 

You talk of weaving as a continually evolving as an art form. What do you mean by this?
Weavers are experimenting and trying out new things, and this inspires other weavers – they produce new works, and so it continues. The purpose for the weaving has changed, more aesthetic than functional and therefore a new appreciation for weaving as an art-form is emerging.

How would people who have an interest in weaving get started? 
There are weaving courses offered at various learning institutions in New Zealand. These range from night classes to full-time certificate, diploma or degree courses.

Do you like to look at the big picture or focus on the details?
Focus on details

What's your number one business tip for surviving (and thriving) in the creative industries?
Keep it real. Don’t lose your integrity for the sake of money.

Which of your projects to date has given you the most satisfaction?
My first solo exhibition titled “Tukakahumai  - garments stand forth” at Pataka in 2007.

Who or what has inspired you recently?
Manos Nathan (ceramic artist) and his exhibition at Pataka that opened recently.

If you could go back and choose a completely different career path to the one you've chosen, what would it be?
Probably something nature orientated. I have an interest in birds, trees and horticulture – growing or producing organic foods. Possibly a nutritionist.

What place is always with you, wherever you go?
Hongoeka -where I live now, and where my marae and whanau are.

What’s best way to listen to music, and why?
Live, with a glass of wine. Live is always best.

You are given a piece of string, a stick and some fabric. What do you make?
A surrender flag

What's the best stress relief advice you've ever been given?
“Coffee break?”

What's great about today?
That I’m alive and my hands are still working, and I still have some coffee left.

What’s your big idea for 2009?
To get through all the projects planned for the year, and not think too much ahead.