Jessy Rauora Mete
Jessy Rauora Mete (Ngāti Rakaipaaka, Ngāti Kahungunu), also known as Miss Tino, is a multidimensional Māori visual artist whose practice illuminates and navigates wā. Drawing on whakapapa, pūrākau and the taiao, Jessy explores the interconnectedness of past, present and future through painting, sculpture, digital art and whakairo pounamu. She holds a Master of Creative Practice and a Bachelor of Māori Visual Arts with Honours. Her practice explores wairua, tino rangatiratanga and kaitiakitanga, while recognising the transformative potential of mahi toi to share ancestral stories, strengthen cultural identity and support the wellbeing of the community.
Jessy Rauora Mete’s Te Pou o Rongo is a Corten steel sculpture standing three metres tall, inspired by the Ngāpuhi mōteatea Te Pou. This mōteatea speaks to the provisions of Papatūānuku and the protection of Ranginui as we journey through times of uncertainty. This is particularly pertinent as we face significant environmental changes brought about by climate change. The mōteatea calls us to find support and strength from Rongo, an atua of cultivated foods and peace. Te Pou is a karakia that settles our thoughts and brings us to a calmer state. This is the intention with this sculpture. Te Pou o Rongo embodies support and stability, inviting us to reflect on our shared responsibility to nurture both the environment and our collective wellbeing. It stands as a reminder that wellbeing arises from harmony with the taiao.