Kete Whakairo - Red | by Riperata McMath

This beautiful Kete whakairo (patterned woven bag) was woven by Riperata McMath using Harakeke.

Harakeke is a common flax native to Aotearoa/New Zealand and is arguably the most important fibre plant. Due to its strength and multiple uses, it was a valuable resource to be traded with colonial Europeans.

In making her unique and colourful Kete, Riperata uses traditional and contempary methods. 
Riperata completed her Traditional Māori Arts certificate at Polytech taught tutored by Judy Hohaia.

She harvests her own Muka (prepared fibre of New Zealand flax), dyes it and prepares it using traditional ways. When it comes to the handles of her Kete, Riparata has developed her own method of weaving to make them more durable for everyday use. 

Some patterns presented in Riperata's work are traditional while others are created on the fly. Riparata sees a vision in her head and creates the patterns as she works. "It's all about the journey in life. In life you go here, there, and everywhere, up and down but you also continually go forward. When I freestyle the pattern, it goes on how I am feeling... Mainly, its my own vision in my head then I mix traditional patterns with my own style.

NB: This product is made of natural fibres. Please check with your destination country's customs service about their rules. There may be restrictions on this product entering the destination country. Customs requirements are the responsibility of the recipient of the goods.