Kaokao

Artist
Project

Robert Jahnke
Kaokao

A 2.4 metre work comprising of two x-shaped structures that form a diamond cavity, fitted with his Robert Jahnkes signature neon lighting, is on display as part of the 2017 headland Sculpture on the Gulf festival based at Waiheke Island. It will also be easily seen by ferry passengers and from the Matiatia Harbour up to the headland. Located on an elevated site that allows the diamond void to frame an historic rua tāhuhu (subterranean kumara storage pit) with the sculpture’s internal lighting allowing people to see a repetition of the neon from front and back.

“The diamond [shape] of the sculpture frames the headland of the kumara pit so the sculpture becomes a symbol of mana whenua [territorial rights] of local iwi and a statement of the importance of protecting heritage and wahi tapu lands,”

External Links: Massey Article