Shane Dudley

“This piece is my interpretation of the traditional two-handed Māori weapon, the tewhatewha.

Traditionally carved from the Kānuka tree, valued for its strength and durability, the original form was both functional and symbolic. In this work, I have reimagined it with a rusted steel finish and a polished stainless steel binding along the handle. These materials reference the arrival of the British, who brought harder, stronger metals such as steel and copper, materials that shifted power, technology, and inevitably, relationships and conflict.

The blade, reminiscent of pounamu, carries visible cracks. While pounamu is stronger than wood and deeply revered, it too has its vulnerabilities. The fractures speak to the idea that no material and no culture, is without weakness.

The feathers, Ruru, Tui, and Kererū are gathered from our thriving native birdlife. They acknowledge the enduring presence of the land and its original voices, continuing despite change.

This work is number six in a limited series of ten.

The number 50 is etched into the rusty steel surface, accompanied by five studs, symbolising five decade increments, marking 50 years of Parnell Gallery’s support and promotion of New Zealand art.

Created for the exhibition Reflections, this piece invites consideration of strength, fragility, heritage and change, and what is revealed when we take the time to look back and reflect.” – Shane Dudley

Artist Bio

Shane Dudley’s works draw on both his Pakeha and Maori background, with many pieces highlighting the Mana of the ‘real’ object such as a Huia feather or mere pounamu, of which he makes powerfully enlarged versions.

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