Mark Kopua is one of the most famous tāmoko artists and carvers in Aotearoa, known for the many wharenui he has carved and the countless people he has marked, admired amongst Māori as an artistic visionary who has dedicated himself to the work he does for over 40 years. 

From growing up in the small communities of the east coast under the tutelage of his grandparents, to travelling the country for countless kaupapa and sharing the knowledge he has learned over the years with other people who share a passion for his work – he has served as a keeper of knowledge, driven with the purpose of bettering the lives and mentality of his people all across the country. 

In this episode of Indigenous 100, we talk to this master artist about Māori artforms, what it was like growing up in a Māori speaking community, the mental health work he has done over the years and how his experiences have helped shape not only who he is but his craft as well. 

This is his story. Indigenous 100 – Mark Kopua