Huriana Kopeke-Te Aho, a self-taught artist and illustrator from Aotearoa (New Zealand), has been named BE OPEN Art’s Regional Artist of the Month for April in the Oceania stage of the 2025 competition. Representing a rich lineage of Maori and Pacific heritage, Huriana’s art powerfully channels their whakapapa, takatapui identity, and deep political engagement.
Their work, which combines contemporary techniques with traditional Maori motifs, captivated voters with its compelling visual storytelling and strong message of decolonization and cultural resilience. By centering indigenous voices and reimagining the role of art in reclaiming space, Huriana’s pieces highlight the intersections of identity, heritage, and collective memory.
As part of BE OPEN’s ongoing mission to spotlight emerging talent from around the globe, Huriana now stands in the running to be named Regional Artist for Oceania, with the final decision coming in July.