The Life and Art of Emily Karaka
Emily Karaka is a New Zealand artist of Māori descent, specifically Ngāti Tai ki Tāmaki, Ngati Hine, and Ngāpuhi. Born in Auckland in 1952, she grew up in Glen Innes, where she continues to live today. A largely self-taught painter, her work is recognized for its expressive intensity, use of high key colour, and its gritty address of political issues related to Māori land rights and the Treaty of Waitangi.
Throughout her career, Karaka has been influenced by various figures in New Zealand art who served as mentors, including Greer Twiss, Colin McCahon, Gretchen Albrecht, Tony Fomison, Arnold Manaaki Wilson, Philip Clairmont, and Allan Maddox. She is considered part of the first generation of contemporary Māori artists, often discussed alongside painters such as Robyn Kahukiwa and Kura Te Waru Rewiri.
Exhibitions and Recognition
Karaka's work has been featured in numerous significant exhibitions. Notable displays include:
- Rāhui at Visions Gallery, Auckland (2021)
- Two Artists: Emily Karaka & Shona Rapira Davies at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa (2015)
- Five Māori Painters at the Auckland Art Gallery (2014)
- Kingitanga ki Te Ao (They Will Throw Stones) at the 22nd Sydney Biennale (2020)
Her art is held in the collection of the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. Additionally, her work has been featured in The Big Art Trip.
