Introduction to Kahukiwa

Lesson Overview

Year Level: 5
Subject: Visual Arts
Duration: 60 minutes
Unit: Exploring Kahukiwa’s Art (Lesson 1 of 4)

Curriculum Links

New Zealand Curriculum – Visual Arts (Level 3)

• Developing Practical Knowledge: Investigate and use a variety of materials and processes to express ideas.
• Developing Ideas: Explore and describe visual and spatial elements in objects and artworks.
• Understanding the Arts in Context: Share ideas about how and why Kahukiwa’s work is significant in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Lesson Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will:

1. Understand who Robyn Kahukiwa is and her cultural background.
2. Identify key themes in her artwork, such as Māori identity, family, and social issues.
3. Participate in a visual discussion about her most well-known works.
4. Reflect on what messages and emotions they take away from her paintings.

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Lesson Structure

1. Karakia & Lesson Introduction (5 minutes)

• Begin with a brief class karakia to set a positive tone.
• Introduce the lesson by displaying a large image of one of Kahukiwa’s paintings on the board.
• Ask students: "What do you notice about this artwork? What do you think the artist is trying to tell us?"

2. Who is Robyn Kahukiwa? (10 minutes)

• Give students a short, engaging presentation about Kahukiwa’s life. Key points:
  • Born in Sydney, moved to Aotearoa as a child.
  • Of Ngāti Porou descent.
  • Known for painting strong Māori women, whānau, and the struggles of Māori identity.
  • Artwork often linked to political themes, including land rights and colonisation.
• Use images of her works to visually engage students.

3. Artwork Gallery Walk & Discussion (15 minutes)

• Arrange printed images (or project digital slides) of several Kahukiwa artworks around the classroom.
• Split students into small groups of 4-5 and assign each group an artwork.
• Each group discusses:
  • What emotions does this painting evoke?
  • What symbols or themes do they recognise?
  • How does this painting connect to Māori culture?
• Groups rotate to view all artworks, adding thoughts at each station.

4. Class Discussion & Reflection (10 minutes)

• Gather students and ask volunteers to share their thoughts on Kahukiwa’s work.
• Guide discussion on how her paintings tell a story. Possible discussion prompts:
  • How does this art make you feel?
  • Why do you think Robyn Kahukiwa paints about Māori heritage and social issues?
  • If you were to describe her artwork in one word, what would it be?

5. Mini Drawing Activity – Story Through Symbolism (15 minutes)

• Ask students to create a quick sketch inspired by Kahukiwa’s use of symbolism.
• They should include at least one thing that represents their own heritage, whānau, or something important to them.
• Encourage students to use bold lines and simple shapes, similar to Kahukiwa’s visual style.
• Those comfortable can share their sketches at the end.

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Assessment & Wrap-Up (5 minutes)

• Exit Ticket: Each student writes one thing they learned today about Robyn Kahukiwa on a sticky note and adds it to a ‘learning wall’.
• Brief feedback session – "What did you enjoy about today’s lesson?"
• Preview next lesson: "Next time, we will look at how Kahukiwa uses colour and emotion in her paintings!"

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Resources & Materials

✔ Printed images/slides of Robyn Kahukiwa's artworks
✔ Large whiteboard & markers
✔ A3 paper and pencils for drawing activity
✔ Sticky notes for exit ticket
✔ Projector (if using a digital presentation)

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Teacher's Notes & Extensions

• Consider playing soft waiata in the background during drawing time.
• If time allows, incorporate a short video interview with the artist.
• Follow up with a class inquiry: "What questions do you have about Robyn Kahukiwa?" This can guide future learning.

This lesson is designed to inspire curiosity and cultural connection, helping students see how art carries powerful stories. Ka pai! 🎨✨