Karetao – Puppets
Reviving the Art of Karetao - Puppets
Karetao, traditional Māori puppets, are experiencing a revival. Once set aside, much knowledge and experience surrounding karetao was lost to history. However, recent efforts have reignited interest in these cultural treasures, inspiring new creations and performances.
Preserving the Legacy of Karetao - puppets
Despite the historical loss, several valuable resources remain that shed light on the art of karetao:
- Museum Collections: Extant examples of traditional karetao are held in museums across New Zealand and around the world.
- Fragmentary Literature: Historical documents provide glimpses into karetao traditions.
- Films and Videos: Historical footage captures karetao in action.
- Iwi Memories: Indigenous communities preserve memories and small items of literature related to karetao.
While our knowledge of traditional karetao is limited, these fragments inspire the creation of new karetao and performances, breathing life into this ancient art form.
The Cultural Significance of Karetao
Karetao are an integral part of Māori culture, despite the scarcity of documentation. During the revival of Taonga Pūoro, led by the late Dr. Hirini Melbourne, discussions highlighted the synergy between karetao and Taonga Pūoro. This collaboration enhances the performance and delivery of Māori culture, intertwining sound, music, spirit, and storytelling.
Preserving the Legacy of Karetao
Despite the historical loss, several valuable resources remain that shed light on the art of karetao:
- Museum Collections: Extant examples of traditional karetao are held in museums across New Zealand and around the world.
- Fragmentary Literature: Historical documents provide glimpses into karetao traditions.
- Films and Videos: Historical footage captures karetao in action.
- Iwi Memories: Indigenous communities preserve memories and small items of literature related to karetao.
While our knowledge of traditional karetao is limited, these fragments inspire the creation of new karetao and performances, breathing life into this ancient art form.
James Webster's Vision for Karetao Pūoro
“My vision for my ‘Karetao Pūoro’ (Singing Māori Puppets) project has evolved from my practice in the arts and my personal growth. The creation of these karetao aims to enrich the stories and delivery of Taonga Pūoro wānanga and to revive karetao as a living cultural entity.”
James' Initial Karetao - Puppets Collection
James has successfully completed seven Karetao Pūoro, each reflecting different aspects of Māori culture:
- Papa – The rhythms
- Hine Pu Te Hue – The gourds
- Tane – Creator of many song makers
- Tangaroa – Creator of shell instruments
- Tawhirimatea – The wind voices
- Hine Raukatauri – Goddess of flutes
- Rangi – The tunes
The initial Karetao, Rangi and Papa, were created during a 10-week Artists in Schools residency at Mercury Bay Area School in 2008. This residency allowed James to study and develop concept drawings, while engaging with students, teachers, and the community. The subsequent five karetao were created with the support of a Creative NZ Quick Response Funding grant in 2009, completed in 2010.
This project stands at the forefront of a cultural revival, transforming karetao from silent artifacts to dynamic, living expressions of Māori heritage.
Connect with Tahaa
At Tahaa, we are dedicated to preserving and revitalizing the art of karetao. Explore our portfolio and discover the magic of these traditional Māori puppets. If you are interested in commissioning a karetao or learning more about our work contact us today to join us in celebrating and sustaining this vibrant cultural tradition.
