Our Whānau of Light range was developed for the 2023 launch of Oyster & Moon online platform (www.oyster-moon.com) - an indigenous-led cultural retail experience where Te-Moana-nui-a-kiwa creators share their cultures with the world. Oyster & Moon is a reciprocal values-based model with an aim to elevate the cultural and creative offerings locally and globally. When you support the creators, Oyster & Moon re-invest in their continued mahi of commercial capability building and building opportunity for their creators.

In April 2023, Oyster & Moon officially launched with an exhibition and retail experience at Depot Artspace (Auckland). MISS MAIA developed a range of art and jewellery pieces that told the story of tangata whenua (people of the land), the work of Oyster & Moon, the collective of indigenous creatives and the vision for a thriving indigenous future.

The Whānau of Light design has many layers to its story. As a whole the design represents the whakapapa (genealogy) of light and the beauty of creation. The Whānau of Light helps us to make sense of our own journey of self-actualisation, illumination and collaboration. 

In terms of its parts, the central diamond koru design is 'Hononga', representing the union between Tangotango (darkness of night) and Wainui (the ocean) with the four outer quadrants representing their offspring; Tama-nui-te-ra (sun), marama (moon), whetū (stars), hinātore (phosphorescent light). The actions of Tānemahuta placing their offspring into new homes in the sky are also featured in the design. 

The central 'Puaki' design is characteristic of the pearl where the design reveals itself, emerging from the union of Tangotango and Wainui. The engraved design depicts tenacity and determination, transforming from union, to reveal an expression of rare beauty.

If you're looking for an ethical retail experience where you can shop by your values, do consider Oyster & Moon creators

April 2023