Portfolio

Showcasing a selection of contemporary Māori art by River Jayden, spanning large-scale murals, light installations, and public art.

To enquire about available work, please contact riverjaydenartist@gmail.com

ŌPĀWAHO Glass Installation - Hapa 2026

Nestled by the banks of the Ōpāwaho awa, HAPA’s new glass fit-out at The Tannery is a beautiful blend of place and purpose. Crafted by River, the design draws deeply from the river running just outside the shop's doorstep. By weaving kōwhaiwhai patterns into the glass, the work serves as a stunning visual reminder of our duty to protect and sustain the awa for our future mokopuna.

Te Tihi o Kahukura - Public Light Installation 2023

Te Tihi o Kahukura was installed on Te Pae Convention Centre in Ōtautahi. Art Historian Dr Reuben Woods has written a detailed blog on the significance of this mahi toi.

Read the article here: Spotlight River Jayden's "Te Tihi o Kahukura"

Teretere - Tīra Office Tamaki Makaurau 2025

In this striking work, River explores the whakapapa of steel, weaving a kōrero that follows its journey from the black sands of Taranaki to the landscape of Tāmaki Makaurau. Alongside this, Teretere highlights the significance of steel through a cultural lens, reflecting on how this enduring material connects back to Te Ao Māori.

Te Pūrakau ā Tiki raua kō Tūtanekai - Arts Centre 2025

Installed at the Art Centre in Christchurch, River's work explores Takatāpui (same sex) identities within Te Ao Māori. Art Historian Dr Reuben Woods has written a blog on the significance of this work.

Read the blog here: River Jayden's Te Pūrakau ā Tiki rāua ko Tūtānekai – Celebrating Identity and Reclaiming Space

Te Waka o Rangi - Matariki Light Installation 2025

River’s mahi explores Te Waka o Rangi and its relevance within Matariki celebrations. Through vibrant Māori visual storytelling, her work reflects the connection between the stars, the natural world, and the journeys of our tūpuna.

He Atua o Matariki - Matariki Light Installation 2025

He Atua o Matariki explores the significance of key figures including Ururangi, Waitī, Waitā, and Tāwhirimātea within the Matariki narrative. Through contemporary Māori visual language, the work reflects the interconnected relationship between the atua, the environment, and the celestial realm, highlighting the enduring mātauranga carried through Matariki traditions.

For enquiries, contact riverjaydenartist@gmail.com