Paula Rigby

Skilled weaver of natural fibres

Paula is a skilled senior weaver, with years of experience creating beautiful taonga (treasurers) from natural fibres native to Aotearoa New Zealand.

Her works use traditional skills passed from one generation to the next and she often creates pieces that are a commentary on the habitat that these resources are sourced from.

Paula has a wealth of experience as a weaver and Arts advisor. She spent 15 years as the Māori Arts Advisor for the Christchurch City Council working alongside local and International Artists to create a vibrant Public Art collection for the City.

Post Earthquakes, Paula supported Matapopore Charitable Trust established by Te Ngāi Tūāhuriri Rūnanga for the provision of cultural advice on Ngāi Tūāhuriri / Ngāi Tahu values, narratives and aspirations for the anchor projects and any other projects associated with the regeneration of Ōtautahi/ Christchurch. The result is paving, standalone and integrated artworks that bring the pūrakau (stories) of Manawhenua into the built environment.

Supported by the team at Art Fetiche Paula has created works inspired by the Whare Pora (House of traditional Māori weaving) for the private sector in Christchurch.

The works blend weaving patterns, glass, LED, steel and iron to create contemporary works for the commissioning organisation.

Art Fetiche can take her storyboards and work alongside her to develop the artwork from concept to installation.

The knowledge that Art Fetiche brings to a project is invaluable and their respect and care are second to none.