Josh Kiwikiwi is a contemporary Māori portrait artist hailing from Whangārei, Northland, whose work sits at the intersection of urbanism and traditionalism. Through a multidisciplinary practice spanning painting, sculpture, and design, he explores reclamation, cultural identity, and discovery—reimagining how whakapapa and wairua evolve in modern contexts.

Self-taught, with a background in SPFX makeup, set design, and sculpting, Josh has been painting seriously since 2016 and became a full-time artist in 2024. His works are characterised by a fusion of realism, abstraction, and contemporary mark-making, often incorporating sculptural and industrial techniques that build depth and texture into his portraiture. Drawing from his Māori heritage and other indigenous cultures, he creates work that intricately weaves human expression with cultural narratives.

Josh’s practice has gained rapid recognition. His series The Wāhine in Gold was named one of the top 50 Māori-made products in Aotearoa in 2022, and his works are now held in private collections internationally, with many acquired through his strong social media presence. In 2025, he was named a finalist in the biennial Kiingi Tuheitia Portrait Awards and chosen as The King’s Trust Aotearoa New Zealand Artist of the Year. He was invited to exhibit at Eden Park’s “Art in the Park” exhibition, receiving sponsorship and mentorship from The King’s Trust and the directors of Art in the Park. Alongside these opportunities, Josh has also established a tuākana-teina relationship, being mentored by contemporary artist James Ormsby.

Artist statement
A question that has occupied my thoughts for years is: Am I an artist who is Māori, or am I a Māori artist? That question became the catalyst for leaving my career in retail management and beginning a deeper journey into my whakapapa, my reo, and te ao Māori. Through that reconnection, I found clarity: I am a contemporary Māori portrait artist.

My practice is shaped by expressive brushstrokes, spontaneous splatters, structured Māori patterns, and layered iconography. These elements mirror my own cultural awakening—my struggle, discovery, and the emotions that surfaced throughout that process. A pivotal influence in my development has been my mentor, Matua James Ormsby, who taught me: ‘When you think you’re finished — start again. This is what separates artists from working professionals.’ That depth, discipline, and challenge have profoundly impacted the way I approach every piece.

My work continues to stand as a testament to ongoing exploration, reflecting the complexities of identity and my connection to culture. — Josh Kiwikiwi