ATA: A Third Reflection, 2016

‘'Ata' in te reo Māori references artistic concerns such as reflection, form, light and shadow, but also refers to the act of deliberation. Professor Robert Jahnke's Ata explores Māori creation narratives and prophetic imagery through light and reflection.

This new body of wall mounted and free-standing installation works explore reflection of neon text and pattern inspired by the practices of Chilean artist, Ivan Navarro and Italian artist, Paolo Scirpa.

The technique results in a repetition of pattern that appears infinite but disappears into a void of darkness. Through these optical effects Jahnke endeavours to capture the Maori notion of the emergence of Te Ao Marama the world of light from the darkness of Te Po.

Ata: A Third Reflection exhibition catalogue

All images credit: Jeff McKewen