Drawing from the premise that forest health is under threat from kauri dieback (Phytophthora agathidicida) and myrtle rust (Austropuccinia psidii), the artists in this exhibition were commissioned over 2021–2023 to research and explore expressions of grief, healing and restoration.

Intentionally intersecting mātauranga Māori and Western science knowledge streams, the resulting research projects are diverse. Some aspire to address a wide public, others speak within the intimacy and immediacy of whānau and hapū concerns, or to the specificity of a particular landscape. The works take a variety of forms, including karakia, moving image, literature and textiles. The exhibition also includes digital billboards across Tāmaki Makaurau which combine paintings by Emily Karaka with urgent calls to protect our native forest.

Toi Taiao Whakatairanga, a collective research project, proposes creative practices have an important role to play in generating knowledge, care and connection to the challenges facing te taiao. Toi Taiao Whakatairanga is part of Mobilising for Action, funded by Ngā Rākau Taketake/New Zealand’s Biological Heritage National Science Challenge.

Toi Taiao Whakatairanga research/curatorial group includes: Ariane Craig-Smith, Dr. Mark Harvey (Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga, Ngāti Toarangatira, Clan Keith), Sophie Jerram, Chris McBride, Dr. Molly Mullen, Dr. Nick Waipara (Rongawhakaata, Ngāti Ruapani ki Turanga). More information about this research project is available at toitaiaowhakatairanga.nz.