Selwyn Murupaenga was a highly respected Māori artist, broadcaster, and cultural advocate from New Zealand, renowned for his contributions to the arts and the promotion of Māori culture. His career spanned across visual arts, music, and broadcasting, his work deeply rooted in his cultural heritage.

As a painter and sculptor, Muru's art explored themes of identity, history, and the connection between people and the land. His works were celebrated for their bold, expressive style and strong narrative elements that drew from Māori mythology and contemporary issues. He exhibited widely, both nationally and internationally, and his pieces are held in significant public and private collections. Selwyn Murupaenga was the first contemporary Māori artist to have a work acquired by the National Art Gallery

In addition to his work in the visual arts, Muru was also a talented composer and performer, composing music for numerous films and television programs. His contributions to broadcasting included his role as a pioneering Māori broadcaster, where he used his platform to elevate Māori voices and stories.

Selwyn Murupaenga's enduring influence on Māori art and culture extended beyond New Zealand's shores, with his art and ideas resonating with global audiences. He was respected by his peers and the communities he served, and was often called upon as a cultural advisor, sharing his deep knowledge of Māori traditions and contemporary issues. His influence on younger generations of Māori artists was profound, with many seeing him as a mentor and guiding figure in their own creative journeys.

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📸 https://collections.archives.govt.nz/web/arena/search#/entity/aims-archive/R24460991

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