Artist Arohanoa Mathews is on a mission.
"I have painted portraits of women without eyes wearing a moko kauae. For me, this symbol really is about focusing on empowering women and just for women to be able to speak up."
Encouraging wahine to find their voice is the inspiration behind much of her artwork, including these pieces.
They'll be on display during He Iwi Kotahi "Sea and Village" festival at The Incubator on Waitangi Day. The festival featuring works from a number of Māori artists.
"For me, the moko kauae - there's a lot of meaning and inspiration. That authenticity, it comes from within. It is given to you, not taken from you. It's a spiritual authority. That's what my artwork is about- having that voice."