25 Jan 2024

Māori artist Selwyn Muru dies, aged 86

From Morning Report, 8:53 am on 25 January 2024

A Māori arts advocate has described the late Selwyn Muru as a friend, family man, and dedicated to his people. 

The artist, from Ngāti Kuri and Te Aupouri, died peacefully yesterday surrounded by whanau.

He was 86.

His life's work includes painting, sculpture, journalism, broadcasting, directing, acting, set design, theatre, and poetry.

One of his most well-known works is 'Waharoa', a seven-metre-high wooden gateway that stands in Aotea Square in central Auckland. 

Close friend and Wairau Māori Art Gallery Charitable Trust Board chair Elizabeth Ellis spoke to Corin Dann.