Reweti Arapere’s Artwork Enters Space
Māori artist Reweti Arapere has made history with his artwork aboard the Hēki technology mission.
The artwork, etched onto a superconducting magnet cover, was launched in September on a SpaceX Falcon 9, marking the first integration of Māori visual culture in a space science mission.
“What I do know about the magnetic energy forces. It’s a little like, little bit like the Ironman power source. It lights up blue on the chest of the magnet. So that’s why Rawinia Higgins named it Kōkako.
Arapere’s artwork reflects the names Hēki and Kōkako, gifted by Professor Rawinia Higgins, in its design and meaning.
This historic achievement is a significant milestone for Māori visual culture.
Author’s summary: Reweti Arapere’s artwork enters space, a first for Māori culture.