Brett Graham

Recent Exhibitions

Recalibrating (2021)

Wai (2018)

Resettle (2017)

Plot 150 (2014)

Brett Graham (Ngāti Koroki Kahukura) is a prominent contemporary New Zealand artist whose work has been included in exhibitions all over the world. Highlights internationally include the Honolulu Biennale 2017, the Venice Biennale 2007, the Sydney Biennale 2006 and 2010 and the 2013 survey of international indigenous art at the National Gallery of Canada.

His 2020-21 solo exhibition Tai Moana Tai Tangata, considered one of the most powerful and historically significant solo exhibitions ever to be staged in New Zealand, is a multi-layered exploration of the legacy of the New Zealand wars of the mid-19th century, bringing together specific local narratives and more universal and topical issues on the nature and role of monuments in the public domain, and the shaping of historical narratives including those of the anthropocene.

Grounded in Te Ao Māori, a Māori world-view, Graham produces large scale sculptures and installations that explore indigenous histories, politics and philosophies. Questions of power relations are at the heart of his practice. He is highly regarded for his ability to abstract complex political, historical and cultural ideas into strong sculptural form.   "The fact that Brett draws upon the customs of Māori carving and recontextualises these practices within the language of contemporary art is what brings his work so much depth and makes it accessible for many different audiences." Candice Hopkins, co-curator Sakahàn: International Indigenous Art, National Gallery of Canada in Art New Zealand #147

Graham has a doctorate in Fine Arts from the University of Auckland and an MFA from the University of Hawaii. His work is in public and private collections around the world. He has also produced several major public artworks throughout New Zealand and undertaken artist residencies in Switzerland, the United States and Australia.

Maungārongo ki te Whenua Maungārongo ki te Tangata

2021
Brett Graham
Carved Wood
Installation View, Govett-Brewster Gallery