Gordon Walters Modernism, Biculturalism, And Cultural...

Gordon Walters: Modernism, Biculturalism, and Cultural Appropriation The work of Gordon Walters emerges from a number of varying sources and influences. While works like Walters’ koru paintings are immediately recognizable through their usage of the Maori koru motif, Walters paintings also exist as a product of Modernist European art practices. To understand Walters’ intent regarding the utilization of this motif, one must first understand the different artistic sources informing the artist, and the implications of those sources and artistic styles. Through this examination, an understanding can be garnered regarding the element of cultural appropriation within Walters’ work. Walters’ work exists today within the contexts of a bicultural New Zealand society. His works draw upon themes from Maori art as well as European artistic concerns and practices. But out of what contexts were Walters’ work created? Walters’ interest in indigenous Maori art was supplemented early, from his time at the Wellington School of Art where his teacher Roland Hipkins encouraged study of Maori art and design, further Walters continued himself to study Maori art through the Dominion Museum and later through his friendship with Theo Schoon. In fact, much of Walters’ practice owes to the influence of Theo Schoon. As an immigrant, Schoon brought, to New Zealand, contemporary European art practices, which informed the basis of most of Walters’ artistic concerns. It remains essential to identify