18 May 2005
The New Zealand flag has long been an issue of contention for many kiwis, with different groups campaigning now and then for a change.
From a silver fern on a black background or the removal of the Union Jack, to Kotahitanga or Tino Rangatiratanga emblems, it seems that there is no shortage of suggested alterations.
But, love it or hate it, the fact remains that the flag is has an indelible place in our heritage - as do all flags that have appeared throughout our history.
In keeping with that, Pataka Museum and Art Gallery is hosting 'Symbols of Sovereignty', a series of five exhibitions about the flags of Aotearoa.
Featuring photographs of Maori flags of the 19th Century, Niu Tireni is already open and runs through to August 21.
This exhibition has been designed and compiled by photographer and pictorial historian/ commentator Paul Thompson, already well-known for highlighting aspects of New Zealand life and his creation of the book The Bach.
The next instalment of the series is also open and will close at the same time as Niu Tireni. Jack or Black explores the debate that surrounds the issue of whether or not New Zealand should change its flag. It includes cartoons, videos, artwork, and a range of new flag designs.
Two more exhibitions will open on May 28- Protest and Celebration is a collection of images by some of New Zealand's leading photographers and shows the flags we have used in protests and celebrations over the past few decades.
Twenty one New Zealand artists contributed works for the Flag works, each using flag imagery in an iconic or symbolic way.
The final show is History Unfurled, which begins on June 11 and runs
until October 16. Examining the history of flags in New Zealand, it shows
flags that have been used to represent us as iwi, as a British colony
and as an independent nation.
Northern Courier
(c) 2005 Prestige Community Newspapers