Talei Elvy is a third-year Bachelor of Fine Arts student at Elam School of Fine Arts, whose practice revolves around the spiritual and mystical connection between the earth and human beings. Through her ceramic work, she channels divination, creating forms that act as beacons of mystical power and spiritual guides. Drawing inspiration from her heritage, Elvy explores the intersection of nature and the divine, using clay as a conduit to restore awe and reverence for the non-human world. Her works engage in a dialogue about the sacred, inviting reflection on the interconnectedness of all things and encouraging a return to gratitude and harmony with the earth.

Elvy’s practice is rooted in a deep respect for the land, acknowledging the relationship between Papatūānuku (the earth) and the materials she uses. She carefully harvests sacred flora and invasive species, ensuring her work maintains a sustainable and harmonious relationship with nature. Her creations are not mere artefacts of the past but blueprints for the future, revitalizing ancient knowledge and spiritual practices for contemporary understanding. Through her ceramics, Elvy seeks to re-enchant the world, encouraging viewers to reconnect with the sacred and divine within the natural world.