Swept under the rug

by Ming Ranginui

Muka, cotton pearl, thread, broomstick

1600mm

This work was previously shown at the Kiingi Tuheitia. Portraiture Award, it depicts my Nanny Heeni Jayne. Ranginui, although not physically depicted, I see this work as a depiction of my nan’s labour and collectively our ancestors, and all they had to do to survive and keep our culture alive. Unfortunately, this meant often having to sweep things under the rug. Whether that be us being forced to assimilate and sweep your own culture and language under the rug to survive, or having your rights as a Māori swept under the rug by others. Like many, my nan grew up not being allowed to speak her reo in fear of punishment, yet despite this, she is the one in the family that keeps us connected to our whakapapa. She is my guiding Star.