Darcy Nicholas

Contemporary Māori Artist • Storyteller • Cultural Leader

For more than five decades, Darcy Nicholas has been one of New Zealand’s leading Māori artists, cultural advocates, and storytellers.

For more than five decades, Darcy Nicholas has been one of New Zealand’s leading Māori artists, cultural advocates, and storytellers. Born in Waitara, Taranaki, and affiliated with Kahui Maunga, Te Ātiawa nui Tonu, Ngāti Ruanui, Tangahoe, Tauranga Moana, and Ngāti Hauā, he has played a significant role in the contemporary Māori art movement since the late 1960s.

Alongside his artistic practice, Darcy has been a leader in cultural development, championing Māori arts through major exhibitions, international exchanges, and the creation of Pataka Art + Museum. His contributions have been recognised through numerous national honours and awards. Today, he continues to create, exhibit, and inspire through his art.

Selected Works

The Storyteller

I needed to do the ultimate Māori storyteller and that is what this one is.

Earth Mothers

Inspired by all the women who helped bring me up.

Taranaki

My ancestral mountain…

Artist Statement:

“The land is my ancestral mother and the sky my ancestral father, we have a physical and spiritual side to our lives and our ancestors are always with us. My late wife Anne was born in Aberdeen and my ancestors were born in many other countries. My wish is peace in the world and build a friendly future for generations to follow. My art is a constant reminder to present and future generations”

July 25th - October 17th, 2026 Exhibition: Land of my Ancestors, Whirinaki Whare Taonga, Upper Hutt

LAND OF MY ANCESTORS

Darcy Nicholas will be showcasing a number of works using different media spanning from the 1960’s through to today.