“A unique online collection of community art”
The category winners of the E Tū Whānau Poster Competition 2025, along with the People’s Choice Award winner were announced today, all chosen from among 488 entries in which artists of all ages explored the question Ko wai au? Who am I?
Heni Turner, E Tū Whānau Kaiwhakahaere, says the emotional intelligence and thoughtfulness evident in each of the entries is a tribute to that kākano of greatness, the spark of creativity within all whānau.
She thanks and congratulates everyone who took up the wero and entered this year’s competition.
“I encourage everyone to continue enjoying this unique collection of community art. The creative way each artist chose to explore who they are through their connection to the world around them is so uplifting.”
You can view all entries in the competition gallery on the E Tū Whānau website.
Judges’ comments
Judges, Miriama Grace-Smith, Kahurangi Falaoa and Stu McDonald had the difficult task of choosing the winners from among the wonderfully creative and varied entries.
“Wow!” was Kahurangi’s reaction to 22-year-old Jayda Siyakurima’s stunning portrait blending the beauty of her Māori and Zimbabwean whakapapa, “like the korowai woven with the wisdom of our tūpuna.”
“I am a creator of art, stories, and life, blending the beauty of my Māori and Zimbabwean whakapapa. Like the korowai woven with the wisdom of our tūpuna, my work reflects connection and legacy.
The beauty of a woman of colour is both judged and admired. As a mother who still mourns the loss of my twin babies, two fantails visit me often – a constant reminder that their spirit remains with me.
I also chose the tiki because it embodies creation and protection, as my story continues with my two-year-old daughter and pēpī on the way.”
Jayda Siyakurima
“I love the korowai and how the white feathers are illuminated, showing me her deep connection to Aotearoa,” Kahurangi said.
Miriama Grace-Smith found 16-year-old James Davis’ self-portrait outstandingly creative, powerful and though provoking.
“The symbolism of the hand shaping James’ head shows how experiences mould who you are. The black background works well as a blank canvas for the future. And the use of shading and realism adds depth and makes the portrait stand out,” she said.
“My poster answers the question symbolically of Who am I? This self-portrait portrays me being created.
The hand on top of my head represents the creation of who I am and the surroundings that have moulded me into the person I am today.
My choice of having the black background symbolises the opportunities I will have and who I will be in the future – it’s a blank canvas and the darkness makes it so unknown.”
James Davis
Stu McDonald was captivated by the bold colour contrasts that commanded his visual attention when he viewed 12-year-old Sam Kepa’s category-winning design which incorporated tohu that make him proud to be Māori.
“My poster, “Ko wai au,” is about all the things I like. Fishing, waka hourua, the stars, the marae, Mauao and Tauranga Moana. I’m proud to be Māori.
For the background, I used a red spray paint first then I used an orange paint for the sunrise. I drew Mauao using a green paint pen, and a black paint pen for the silhouette images. The blue paint represents Tauranga Moana.”
Sam Kepa
Kahurangi said that, as a judge, he felt privileged to look deeply at each artwork.
“I saw the work of talented artists and deep thinkers, but I am mindful that art is in the eye of beholder and my choice is just my choice. I hope everyone who entered this year’s competition continues to pursue their creativity in any way that is right for them.”
Winners of the E Tū Whānau Poster Competition 2025
This year’s E Tū Whānau Poster Competition attracted 490 entries and 2590 votes. It was held in partnership with Māori Radio and the Māori Media Network.
All winners will receive gift card prizes which can be used to pay for anything from art supplies and creative tech tools to travel and accommodation for art wānanga or research.
The winners are:
12 years & under
- 1st: Sam Kepa
- 2nd: Mosese Inoke
- 3rd: Mila Madhu
- Highly Commended: Iva Levy Smiler; Hinewaiapu Taumaunu-Boyder; Mason Jones; Amokura Kipa; Manseerat Kaur; Pia Tua.
13 – 18 years
- 1st: James Davis
- 2nd: Riley Tohiariki-Silbery
- 3rd: Frankie Philpott
- Highly Commended: Walter Guzman; Bailey Harrison; Kimiora Puata; Nina Chiang; Emily Andrews.
19 years & over
- 1st: Jayda Siyakurima
- 2nd: Raera Apera
- 3rd: Louis Smith
- Highly Commended: Andrew Strickland; River Day; Jacob Innes; Amber Adams.
Winner of the People’s Choice Award
- Mikaere Wikotu
“Mikaere’s artwork reflects the world as seen through the eyes of a non-verbal autistic child. Through colours, shapes, and patterns, he communicates his unique way of experiencing life beyond words.
His art is his voice, showing how he connects with the world: visually, deeply, and authentically. It speaks to who he is as a thoughtful observer with a rich inner world.”
Mikaere Wikotu’s entry submission
E Tū Whānau Poster Competition 2025 was run by Māori Media Network in conjunction with Māori radio and E Tū Whānau.
