Freehand Maori Artist, Richard Francis from TOIARIKI Contemporary Ta Moko is the man behind the intricate design which has been presented to Kiwi racer Chris van der Drift who will be behind the wheel for round 2 of the championship this weekend in Belgium, ZolderRichard Francis specializes in Moko (Maori Skin Art). Regarded as one of Aotearoa (New Zealand's) finest ta moko artists, Richard is in high demand for his Moko work and, from his studio in Rotorua regularly travels to work on clients around New Zealand and Australia. As a practitioner in the art of ta moko, Richard is also a visual artist, carver, graphic designer, researcher of whakapapa and tribal history, believing that the Maori arts are an integral part of the New Zealand culture. An advocate of the re-development of the symbolism and information attached to Moko designs, Richard often gives seminars on the art of ta moko to share his knowledge and understanding of the sacred meanings."Being an active part of the renaissance of Contemporary Maori Art has seen Moko almost return to its full recognition as an art form of integrity and important to ones identity." Richard said. "The design and meanings behind the New Zealand car are pertaining to this ancient Maori proverb; Ko te pae tawhiti whaia kia tata, ko te pae tata whakamaua kia tina, which means seek out distant horizons and cherish those you attain."The design of the car is synonymous with navigation and migration with each part of the car represented by a part of New Zealand, the North and South Islands and the Maori people.
"Each section of the car has a meaning." Richard stated. "The stingray represents "Te Ika a Maui" and the discovery of 'Aotearoa' (the North Island is the stingray of Maui). The waka 'tauihu' design is the front section of the 'Wakataua' (War Canoe), what breaks through the waves and challenges ahead. The South Island is 'Te Waka a Maui' Mauis' Canoe and the Great White Pointer Shark represents the 'Milky Way', the stars for navigation and guidance when traversing new horizons. Also when in the heat of the Race one needs to adopt the characteristics of the Shark, the never say die attitude." Richard stated.Chris van der Drift spoke to us about the inspiration for the design."Richard is a personal friend of mine and it is very special that he has designed the livery for the New Zealand car this weekend for me. I think when the Kiwi fans see the car they will immediately associate it as "truly Kiwi". The design is unlike any other race car I have seen and I am really proud to be representing my home country this weekend."If you would like any more information about the art of ta moko, then visit Richard's Facebook page by searching "Toiariki Contemporary Maori Moko".
The images of the car can be found by visiting atechreidgp.com.
