Local teachers wow at awards

A locally-designed garment which narrates Māori Gods and pays homage to the designer’s father who was recognised for his stained-glass artworks has been honoured.

Te Ao Mārama by Lauren and Frances Kidd (Ngāti Toa Rangatira) took home the Tall Poppy People’s Choice Award in this year’s World of Wearable Art (WOW) competition.

Crafted from painted silk, glass, lighting cable and lights, the winning design represents the story of Papatūānuku (the earth mother), and Tāwhirimātea’s (the god of the weather) journey to be with his father Ranginui in the sky.

Lauren, who teaches at Motueka High School and Frances, who teaches at Māpua Primary School, were overwhelmed and humbled by the adulation.

“Our dad passed away three years ago. While cleaning up his things, we found many of his designs, most of which were native birds which he loved, so we felt it was a beautiful way to pay tribute to him,” Lauren says.

“The lighting element played a crucial role in our design, embodying the concept of illumination from darkness.

“This is reflected in the garment’s title, Te Ao Mārama, meaning ‘out of the darkness there is light’.

“The whole experience is incredible… our piece came from a meaningful place, and we’re so pleased that the audience enjoyed it too.”

The sisters and an audience member who voted for the winner received a $2500 prize, and the Kidds plan to use it to invest in new materials and resources for their next WOW creation.

WOW’s head of competition Sarah Nathan described Te Ao Mārama as a “stunning testament to the power of harnessing original creativity and a deeply personal narrative”.

“Lauren and Frances’ ability to weave their family story into such an intricate yet bold garment, enhanced by the innovative use of light, truly resonated with the audience – you could feel it in the arena.”

Tall Poppy chief executive Mike Seymour also congratulated the Kidds and said sponsoring the People’s Choice Award was a “privilege” and “a full-circle moment” for the Tall Poppy team.