Medium
Acrylic on Coffee Stain Canvas
Dimensions
70W × 90H × 3D cm
Framing
Vintage corners, Not Framed
Emotion
Strength, grounding, honour
Te Mana Wahine
Amandeep Rakhra · Aotearoa, New Zealand
This work reflects a presence shaped through strength, grounding, and care, a recognition of the land, the space, and the people that hold it.
The figure carries a quiet authority, not through force, but through presence. There is a stillness that feels rooted, as if it belongs to something larger than itself.
This work comes from a place of acknowledgement, of standing on land that is not originally mine, yet choosing to honour it, to listen to it, and to hold respect for those who are deeply connected to it.
It reflects the strength of wāhine, a form of power that nurtures, protects, and holds space without needing to dominate. A reminder that true grounding comes not from ownership, but from respect.
Context
About the Context
This piece is inspired by the presence of Māori culture in Aotearoa and the importance of honouring the land, the space, and the people connected to it.
The idea of mana wāhine reflects the strength, dignity, and role of women as carriers of knowledge, care, and continuity within community and culture.
Rather than defining or representing the culture, this work is an acknowledgement, a gesture of respect toward the land that is now called home, and toward those whose roots are deeply connected to it.