Michel Tuffery on Here: Kupe to Cook

The Friends of Te Papa have been offered the opportunity for an exclusive and informative survey of Here: Kupe to Cook exhibition currently on at Pataka Art + Museum by leading Pacific artist, Michel Tuffery MNZM.

Renowned as a printmaker and sculptor, his large scale moving image artworks lead to his key role in the direction and making of Tupaia’s Endeavour documentary and Festival Feature Film due for release on 13th October, 2019.

In 2009, Michel’s painting of ‘Cookie in the Cook Islands’ was purchased by The British Museum; he is the first indigenous artist and the first Polynesian artist to be acquired to this esteemed historical permanent collection.

Michel lives in Wellington, Aotearoa – New Zealand and works globally. In his art practice he plays the role of connector, working “in between” people and places by placing a fresh lens on environmental, community, cultural and art historical divides.

He exhibits worldwide and has undertaken numerous research and residencies throughout the USA, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Asia, India, Australia, as well as Aotearoa and the Pacific. In 2008 Michel was appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to art.

Image credit: Michel Tuffery Studio Shot Drawings Tupaia’s Endeavor