ABOUT LOUIS
Louis Mikaere is a Matakana Island artist who was born and raised in Tauranga Moana. He moved to Wellington to start a new chapter with his whānau, but he didn't realize that it would ignite his passion as an artist.
After working as a laborer for less than a year, he decided to study Creative Technology at Weltec and then furthered his studies at The Learning Connexion. Heavily influenced by his culture and family, he uses his art to spread awareness of issues in Aotearoa.
Louis has murals located in various regions of Aotearoa, including Wellington, Auckland, and Tauranga. His work has also featured in public projects, such as the WWF Whale Tales Trail in 2022. His work is often colorful and vibrant, and it often features traditional Maori motifs and symbols.
Louis is passionate about using his art to make a difference in the world. An inspiration to many, his work is sure to continue to touch the lives of others for years to come.
“The meaning of Taiao is complex, but it essentially means the natural world that encompasses us. It includes all of our surroundings, everything that is living and its offspring. Because we are born of the earth and it is born of us, we have an eternal connection to Taiao”
ARTIST STATEMENT
Heavily influenced by my culture and my people, dedicated to project topics that are relevant to Aotearoa.
Not bound by one discipline, I am constantly trying and testing new ideas. My artworks are a celebration of colour, form and identity. I believe that Te Ao Maori me ona Tikanga, have the answers for a lot of problems we have today.
“Tukua kia tu takitahi, ngā whetu o te rangi”