| REDGIE WALKER-SMALL
Lines of Soul
Redgie Walker-Small
is a multi-talented artist specializing in visual Art, Graphic Design and Tā Moko.
He is a New Zealand-based Moko Practitioner & Artist based in his private Studio in Kaiapoi, Te Waka a Maui .
Redgie is of Kahui Maui, Te Āti Awa, Ngati Rārua ki te Tau Ihu, Ngāti Toa a Rangatira and Te Iwi o Pāke'ā, and his work reflects his unique cultural background.
Redgie Walker-Small's paintings are a profound journey into the realms of culture, identity, and ancestral wisdom. Drawing from a diverse background as a Tā Moko Practitioner, Graphic Designer, and Artist, Redgie's artworks transcend conventional boundaries, offering a tapestry of philosophical musings and emotive narratives.
Each painting, whether it's 'The Self,' 'The Infinite,' or others from his portfolio, is a masterful interplay of colors, symbols, and motifs. Redgie's brush strokes are imbued with the essence of the universe, reflecting the interconnectedness of all things and the depth of human emotion.
Themes of ancestry and Tino Rangatirotanga resonate strongly in Redgie's work, portraying individual experiences while honoring collective heritage. His paintings serve as a bridge between past, present, and future, inviting viewers to contemplate their own stories and connections to the wider world.
Through his holistic approach to artistry, Redgie creates visual narratives that evoke introspection and contemplation. Each painting is a testament to the power of art in sparking conversations, fostering understanding, and celebrating the richness of diverse perspectives.
"I paint from the depths of my thoughts and emotions, letting each piece speak its truth. Once a painting is complete, I move on to the next idea, a continuous journey shaped by my experiences. The beauty lies in your interpretation of the message within the artwork; I refrain from providing explanations, as I believe in the power of independent thought. In a world where individual perspective is precious, I leave it to you to unravel the stories within my creations."
-Redgie Walker-Small
He sometimes draws inspiration from natural world around him yet he insists that the viewer decides for themselves the meaning of the work as it is his strong belief that what should be taken away from his work is up to the exploration of the viewer as it is of uppermost importance as having the ability to think and decide for oneself shows strength of character that is quickly diminishing in this current era yet upholding our Tino Rangatiratanga and our bodily autonomy with a strong mental aptitude will hold us in good stead for the future. His work is gaining a reputation as one of New Zealand's most exciting emerging artists.
TĀ MOKO
In addition to his paintings, Redgie is also an accomplished Tā Moko artist.
Tā Moko is a traditional Maori form of tattooing that is deeply rooted in Maori culture and spirituality. Redgie has studied under some of New Zealand's most respected Tā Moko artists and has developed his own unique style that incorporates both traditional and contemporary elements.
Through his paintings and Tā Moko, Redgie explores themes of identity, culture, and spirituality. His work is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Māori and European people, and a testament to the power of art to connect people across different cultures and backgrounds with the intent to get the viewer thinking for themselves and exploring just a little bit deeper into their own head space, feelings and ideas.