Titokowaru’s Dilemma shines light into the murky world of myth making. Marian Maguire’s beautiful lithographs and etchings explore Taranaki history, challenging simplistic readings of the past by taking Riwha Tītokowaru and placing him with the gods and philosophers of ancient Greece, showing him in debates that have a timeless significance. The prints are complemented by items from the Puke Ariki heritage collection which expose some fertile gaps in the accounts surrounding Tītokowaru and his enemies; gaps in which colourful myths have sprouted. This exhibition asks ‘What is myth?’, ‘What is history?’and ‘Who decides?’
This is a self-guided programme, of particular interest to secondary school teachers of art, history and classical studies.
