Portrait Unveiled to Honor Matua Nelson Rangi’s Legacy

A significant tribute took place on March 15, 2024, at the Aratoi Gallery in Masterton, New Zealand, where a portrait of esteemed rangatira Matua Nelson Rangi was unveiled. This event celebrated the legacy of Rangi, a respected figure in the Wairarapa community, and positioned his image alongside notable Māori leaders in local history.

The portrait, commissioned by art benefactor Ann Hume, was expertly crafted by Greytown artist Tatyana Kulida. It attracted a large gathering, including members of local iwi and representatives from the arts and culture community. Leaders from both Kahungunu ki Wairarapa and Rangitāne o Wairarapa offered heartfelt tributes through speeches and songs, reflecting Rangi’s significant contributions to the region.

At 96 years old, Matua Nelson expressed his gratitude, stating, “It is an honor to have my portrait done,” and acknowledged the gallery’s role in showcasing Māori art and history. He highlighted the importance of Aratoi in displaying indigenous artwork, noting, “We are very fortunate” to have such support.

Sitting for the portrait was an enjoyable experience for Rangi. He humorously remarked, “All I had to do was sit there and look pretty.” Kulida, who is renowned for her traditional “painting from life” technique, described the process as “a wonderful pleasure” and cherished the opportunity to hear stories from Rangi, a figure she considers to be of great significance.

Hume’s connection to Rangi dates back to her family’s long history in the Wairarapa region, where they have known him since his childhood in the 1930s. The idea for the portrait emerged during a visit to Aratoi, where Rangi mentioned the gallery’s collection of his ancestors’ paintings. Hume felt compelled to ensure Rangi was similarly honored, leading her to quickly find an artist before returning to the United States. “She did a wonderful job, and I think Nelson likes it too,” Hume remarked.

The portrait was intended as a gift to Rangi, who has generously placed it on long-term loan to Aratoi. Hume praised Rangi’s leadership, describing him as “an exceptional human being” with a wealth of dignity, wisdom, and a delightful sense of humor.

Sarah McClintoch, the director of Aratoi, emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage. “It’s our goal to keep this taonga alive for future generations,” she stated. The gallery now holds portraits of several prominent Māori figures, making Rangi’s addition a vital link between the past and the present.

Matua Nelson’s portrait joins those of historical figures such as Rangitāne chief Te Retimana Te Korou and Hoani Te Rangitakaiwaho, both painted by the esteemed colonial artist Gottfried Lindauer. Rangi, who retired from his role as kaumatua to Kahungunu ki Wairarapa Iwi Authority after nearly two decades, continues to inspire and lead within his community.

This portrait unveiling not only recognizes Matua Nelson Rangi’s enduring influence but also reinforces the importance of Māori heritage in the Wairarapa region, ensuring that his legacy will be remembered for generations to come.