Kia ora, my name is Josie Selkirk, and I am from Te Tai Tokerau. I work with both digital media and acrylics, creating art that reflects my personal interpretations of Māori purākau and toi Māori, infused with vibrant colors, fun, and psychedelic energy.

The works I will be displaying this year include my Tauira series, printed on A1 Baumas Fine Arts paper and framed. These pieces feature a wahine with her tūpuna watching over her, offering protection and wisdom. As well as a taniwha in her ear talking to her too. The patterns on her head and legs represent her grounded, intuitive nature. This series speaks to the idea that everything we need is already within us. There is also a special Never Ceded piece. 

My Muri-Ranga Whenua canvas series explores the atua wahine, often known as Māui's grandmother. These works shift the focus to her as an individual, highlighting her intuition, knowledge, and crucial role in passing down the wisdom that enabled Māui to fish up Te Ika a Māui. The pieces, sized 30"x30" and 30"x40", tell her story, acknowledging her strength and legacy.

Through my art, I aim to celebrate Māori stories and identity while infusing each piece with a sense of playfulness and contemporary expression.