Ralph Hotere (Hone Papita Raukura) was a highly acclaimed and influential New Zealand artist, born in Mitimiti, Northland. With Māori and Pākehā heritage, Hotere's work reflects the diverse cultural influences that shaped his identity. He began his artistic journey at the Dunedin School of Art in the early 1950s and later attended the Central School of Art in London.

Hotere's oeuvre spans various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and installations. One of his notable contributions is his exploration of social and political themes, often addressing issues such as racism, injustice, and environmental concerns. His deep connection to his Māori heritage is evident in his artworks, with Māori motifs and symbolism frequently gracing his canvases.

The use of language, particularly in the form of text, became a distinctive feature of Hotere's art. He collaborated with poets, most notably with his close friend and fellow artist Bill Manhire, creating visually striking works that combined powerful imagery with poetic verse. Throughout his career, Hotere exhibited extensively both nationally and internationally, gaining recognition for his unique artistic vision.

Hotere's contribution to New Zealand art was honored in 2013 when he was posthumously awarded the country's highest artistic accolade, the Order of New Zealand. His legacy endures in the vast array of public and private collections that house his works, including the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki and Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum. Ralph Hotere's art continues to captivate audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of New Zealand and beyond.

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Portrait: Ralph Hotere. Alexander Turnbull Library: Portraits of prominent New Zealanders, taken by Kenneth Quinn. Ref: 35mm-27478-21A-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22614813

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