MICHAEL PAREKOWHAI
b. 1968, New ZealandMichael Parekowhai draws upon an abundant range of both vernacular and collective vocabularies in his work. He re-manufactures these lexicons into complex narrative structures and formal languages, exploring perceptions of space, the ambiguities of identity, the shifting sensitivities of historical memory and the fluid relationship between art and craft. Ideas of camaraderie, tools of teaching and childhood learning, as well as quotes from modern art history and popular culture, also play out in many of Parekowhai’s stories. While his work is often described as emphasising the extraordinariness of the ordinary, each body of work has layers of potential for meaning and significance – they are open to any depth of interpretation and storytelling.
Michael Parekowhai was born in Porirua, New Zealand in 1968, of Maori (Ngati Whakarongo) and Pakeha descent. Parekowhai graduated with a BFA (1990) and MFA (2000) from the University of Auckland’s Elam School of Fine Arts, and in 2001 became an Arts Foundation of New Zealand Laureate. Notable exhibitions include a recent retrospective at the Queensland Art Gallery of Modern Art (2015), the Asia Pacific Triennial (2006-2007), the Gwangju Biennale (2004); Sydney Biennale (2002), Headlands, MCA, Sydney (1992). He currently holds the position of Professor in Fine Arts at the University of Auckland and lives and works in Auckland, New Zealand.
Courtesy Lett Thomas
Recently Exhibited
Exhibiting Elsewhere
Explore and Follow Artists Shaping Contemporary Art
A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services