Impressive take on NZ myth

The central installation, Ka Awatea: A Journey of Life through Light, by Te Rongo Kirkwood, puts the traditional Maori cloak form into a contemporary format, using kiln-formed cold-worked glass. Light shines through beautifully sculpted glass feathers, the effect complemented by sound.

Norm Heke's large-scale photographic depictions of Maori Gods in the 21st Century treat the subjects similarly to film, television and comic book superheroes.

From one angle, Maui and his brothers are hauling in their mighty catch, while from another, they are at the steps of Parliament, Maui brandishing Treaty documents. A sly humour is evident on their faces.

His body broken and defoliating, Tane looks in horror at the effect of urban development and motorways on his realm. The alternative image shows him standing proud over a pristine landscape.

Tu, the god of war, with science fiction weaponry, surrounded by destruction, is the stuff of computer games. These are not subtle statements, but powerful and effective.

Blending Maori mythology with European art styles has its own tradition. Early examples by Adele Younghusband and others are included in the show.

The clever work by Marian Maguire (Titokowaru's Dilemma) marries mythologies from opposite sides of the world, and also manages to include historical characters.

In Maguire's lithograph reinterpreting Louis John Steele's painting Spoils to the Victor, the woman in this appalling situation has been replaced by the famous armless statue of Venus. And there's some fine adult humour in The Very Idea of a Maori Satyr was a Distraction.

Ray Ching reworks Aesop's 15th century fables into New Zealand settings.

Andrea Hopkins paints personal Conversations on Kowhaiwhai, featuring works created within the last two years.

Legend! is an impressive show, and only on for another week. Highly recommended.

LEGEND!

Myth and Allegory in Aotearoa: A suite of exhibitions

Whangarei Art Museum, Until October 14