The second artist we are excited to welcome to Te Whare Hēra as a part of Mana Moana 2024 is Jessica Hinerangi Thompson Carr, also known as Māori Mermaid. Jess has been inspired to write and draw in the studio during her stay, and was a part of the performances, reading poetry at Te Papa Tongarewa during the event Matariki After Dark on the 21st of June. 

Jessica Hinerangi Thompson Carr is of Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāruahine, Ngāpuhi and Pākehā descent. Born in Ōtepoti, she has a degree in English and Art History with a Masters in Māori Ekphrastic Poetry. She is a poet, journalist and illustrator, working primarily on Instagram under the name @maori_mermaid. Her previous work has appeared in Landfall, Starling, The Big Idea and The Pantograph Punch. 

Jess Hinerangi Thompson Carr (Ngāpuhi and Ngati Ruanui) is the illustrator of ‘Takaroa’ a film made by the following collaborators: Arihia Latham (Kāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, Waitaha), Ruby Solly (Kāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, Waitaha)  Moretekorohunga Lloyd (Te Whakatōhea, Te Aupōuri) and Riki Gooch Pirihi (Ngāti Wai/Ngāti Māhanga Hourua/Patuharakeke).  ‘Takaroa’ is showing as a part of Mana Moana 2024.

Mana Moana 2024 details:
Āhea | When 6pm–9pm, 15-16 June, 22-23 June, 27-30 June 

Ki hea | Where Whairepo Lagoon  

Te utu | Cost Free