BSS 2025 ARTWORK CONCEPT BY MIRIAMA GRACE-SMITH
This year’s theme is beautifully brought to life by artist Miriama Grace-Smith. Below is her description of the work:
This artwork speaks to the process of igniting and developing ideas, especially within the collaborative realm of film-making. At its centre is a wahine reaching out toward te marama (the moon), a symbol of inspiration and creative aspiration. Her gesture marks the beginning of a journey—a path filled with challenges, growth, and collective effort.
She stands on a waka, evoking the whakataukī He waka eke noa – “We are all in this together.” The waka represents unity, shared responsibility, and the essential collaboration needed to bring a vision to life. Waves crash around it, symbolising the obstacles and unpredictability encountered along the creative path. Within these waves appears a mangopare (hammerhead shark), a motif of strength, resilience, and leadership—qualities necessary to overcome adversity.
Above, a kōtuku (white heron) takes flight into the night sky. Known for its rarity and grace, the kōtuku reflects the unique beauty and sacred nature of creative ideas. The poutama pattern is also present, signifying advancement, the pursuit of knowledge, and the step-by-step progress of turning inspiration into reality.
This work is a visual narrative of the collective voyage toward creation, honouring both individual contribution and the strength found in working together.
MIRIAMA GRACE-SMITH
(Ngāti Hau, Ngāti Maniapoto, Te Arawa, Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Ngāti Porou)
Miriama is a full-time artist and works from her studio in Te Whanganui-a-tara, Wellington. She is a multidisciplinary artist, she has worked as a curator, muralist, illustrator, fashion designer, film costumier, and art director, currently focusing on her design, illustration, and mural work. Miriama is also a member of ‘Dream Girls Art Collective’ and designs in collaboration with New Zealand brand ‘Moana Rd’.
