Te Rongo Kirkwood is a contemporary Māori artist known for her innovative use of kiln-formed glass, weaving together mātauranga Māori, storytelling, and material experimentation. Her work reflects deep connections to whakapapa, whenua, and wairua, honouring traditional knowledge while pushing the boundaries of contemporary art.

Kirkwood is best known for her glass kākahu (cloaks), which embody both strength and fragility. These intricate pieces merge traditional Māori weaving aesthetics with the luminous qualities of glass, creating works that speak to resilience, identity, and transformation. Her practice extends beyond glass to include steel, fibre, and film, forming a multidisciplinary approach that challenges and redefines Māori art in the global space.

Her work has been recognised nationally and internationally. She has been a finalist in the prestigious Ranamok Glass Prize, exhibited at the de Young Fine Arts Museum in San Francisco, and in 2024, became the first New Zealander to receive the Rakow Commission from the Corning Museum of Glass.

As an artist, Kirkwood is committed to upholding the integrity of Māori creative expression, ensuring Māori voices are represented with authenticity and excellence. Her practice stands as a testament to the evolution of Māori art, where tradition and innovation come together to create powerful contemporary expressions of culture.

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