Arts Of The Maori

Press, Volume C, Issue 29504, 4 May 1961, Page 6

Arts Of The Maori

“If Maori and pakeha are to understand each other more fully, our children must have experience of the tradi. tional arts of both races so that they can use them to express their own thoughts and to create their own art,” says the Director of Education (Mr A. E. Campbell) in a foreword to “The Arts of the Maori.” a new publication of the Education Department, which will soon go into the the schools. This is undoubtedly one of the finest and most comprehensive popular accounts of this aspect of Maori culture. It is to be hoped that the book will be available also to the public. Every page is illustrated so well that pakehas—and perhaps some Maoris too—will be fascinated to learn so pleasantly of the origin and execution of these ancient crafts. As an indication of the book’s scone, here are some of the topics: the Maori artist and his work, carving, whai (string games', ceremonial costume, action and poi songs, war and folk songs (all with words and translations), tukutuku. plaiting. mat making, stick games, rafter patterns, and the features of the meeting house.