Artist Profile:

Fiona Kerr Gedson

Fiona Kerr Gedson is a multi-award-winning and internationally recognised artist based in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, within the boundaries of the Whakatōhea Iwi.

Having grown up within the presence of the Tūhoe people in Tāneatua and Rūātoki (also in the Bay of Plenty area), Fiona recognises that these relationships have had a huge influence on her art and life.

She first learned traditional Maori weaving techniques from kuia (female elders) in Gisborne. Her work combines feathers, haraeke (flax), and wire, creating striking, modern pieces using techniques that run deep in New Zealand’s history. Her pieces have won numerous awards including prizes in the Opotiki Fibre and Fleece Maori Art Awards in 1996, 2000, and 2002. Other prestigious achievements include recognition from the Centre of Contemporary Arts and are a selected finalist of the Otago Arts Gold Awards in 2015.

Fiona is well represented around the country and her works have sold to collectors worldwide including Luxembourg, France, Switzerland, Canada, Scotland, China, Britain, and the U.S.A. Her pieces have also been included in international exhibitions such as the Tachikawa Art International Festival in Tokyo, Japan, and Fils et Metiers in France.

Fiona’s more recent works draw inspiration from the Mandala (Sanskrit for circle), a form that has origins in ancient Buddhism. It is intended to be a ‘collection point of universal forces’ through which the viewer can gain wisdom and happiness.

“My work allows me to reflect and honour the things that are important to me,” says Fiona."

“I aim to create soulful and elegant pieces, which are meditative and encompassing of many cultures as well as being an expression of my life, my family, and spirituality.”