Kim Ireland Kaimanaaki Te Arawa

Her work examines how systems of oppression have operated and continue to influence lived experiences, using her perspective as a Māori visual artist. Through her uku (clay) practice, she creates and exhibits artworks in public galleries and museums, weaving personal stories and research to provide historical clarity, to create safe spaces, that engage with complex topics, such as Takatāpui and Rainbow identities. 

Kim’s research directly informs her work supporting Māori ākonga, by helping her listen to and understand their lived experiences, including intergenerational trauma. Her insights support the development of more empathetic and culturally aware approaches to student support. This work helps Te Puna Manaaki better respond to the needs of tauira by creating space for understanding identity, belonging, and experiences that are often difficult to articulate.