Makerspace supports local artist's kete display

A regular weekly user of the Makerspace since it opened, Trina uses the laser cutter and vinyl cutter to create tags, plaques, display stands, stencils and heat-transfer designs that complement her handcrafted work.

The collection of contemporary woven kete on display celebrates te reo Māori, Māori artistry and connection to whakapapa and whenua, blending traditional weaving techniques with modern materials and design. The items have been on display since Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (14-20 September) and will continue to be available for visitors to view near the Manawatū Community Hub Libraries front counter and self-check-out kiosk.

Invited to exhibit by Community Programmes Manager Marie Willis, Trina's collection reflects her connection to her heritage, environment and creative practice. "Each kete holds a story of resilience, grounding and connection," said Trina. "Through these works, I hope to encourage others to reconnect with their roots, their environment and themselves."

Trina has been weaving for nine years, learning her skills locally in the Manawatū and in  Whangaroa, Northland. She has a Bachelor of Applied Visual Imaging and a Diploma in Māori Arts.  She has developed a distinctive style that combines traditional weaving practices with contemporary design.

Each kete is handcrafted, a process that can take up to four weeks. Harakeke harvested from Timona Park is dried, dyed and woven before being finished with New Zealand leather straps and hardware. Trina works alongside Layla Cann of Citizenship Leather in Ōpunake, incorporating locally sourced leather into her pieces, while many kete are lined with repurposed Kiwiana fabrics.

The Makerspace plays an important role in helping Trina achieve a professional finish across her work and exhibitions. "The Makerspace is so good," said Trina. "The equipment helps me achieve a professional finish and if I need help, Stew and Deanna are always there. It's a tino pai (very good) resource for artists and makers."

Introduced to the Makerspace by local artist Pania Molloy, Trina now uses the space weekly. Alongside creating exhibition materials and branding for her kete, she also uses Makerspace equipment to produce educational resources used throughout New Zealand and heat-transfer designs for blankets.

Earlier this year, Trina participated in the Makerspace Showcase at Te Āhuru Mōwai. One of her blankets created using Makerspace equipment is also set to feature in the Paraikete Whero Te Papaioea exhibition at Te Manawa in November.

Trina's kete are available for purchase, with prices available on application.

To find out more about the Makerspace: Makerspace | Manawatū Community Hub Libraries