Te Po And Te Ao Marama: Bridging Realms Through Design

Kyra Clarke’s award-winning publication fuses Maori tradition with digital innovation.

Conceived during the profound societal shifts of the Covid-19 pandemic, "Te Po And Te Ao Marama" emerged as a creative response to themes of isolation, connection, and cultural identity. Kyra Clarke, alongside a diverse team of contributors, invited practitioners to reflect on their navigation of social separation and the rediscovery of community through creative practice. The publication draws inspiration from the Maori concepts of Te Po (the night realms) and Te Ao Marama (the world of light), symbolizing growth and transformation born from periods of solitude and reflection.

This special edition stands apart through its deep-rooted commitment to Te Ao Maori perspectives, meticulously adhering to tikanga Maori (customary practices) and matauranga Maori kawa (knowledge protocols). The structure is inspired by the waiata (song) ‘Ko te Pu,’ guiding readers through a multi-layered narrative that blends visual, sonic, and augmented reality cues. The Z-fold cover, adorned with foil and vibrant color motifs, physically and metaphorically connects the realms of darkness and light, encapsulating the publication’s central theme of metamorphosis.

Technological innovation is at the heart of the design. QR codes embedded throughout the 150-page publication unlock immersive visual and sonic experiences, bringing motifs to life through augmented reality. This fusion of print and digital media not only enhances engagement but also symbolizes the intersection of tradition and modernity. Sonic artistry and animated vignettes breathe life into the pages, representing the space between being and non-being, and inviting readers to experience the narrative in multiple dimensions.

The collaborative nature of the project is reflected in the diverse team of designers, artists, and contributors from Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond. Each interview and feature within the magazine is grounded in speculation and reflection, examining unique methods of meaning-making and practice. The research underpinning the publication is guided by Kaupapa Maori values, emphasizing holistic, cross-cultural dialogue and the dissemination of both local and international perspectives.

Recognition of the publication’s excellence came with the Silver A' Design Award in 2025, honoring its remarkable technical and artistic achievements. "Te Po And Te Ao Marama" stands as a testament to the power of design to bridge cultural worlds, foster innovation, and inspire awe through the convergence of art, technology, and tradition.

As the boundaries between print and digital continue to blur, this project sets a new standard for immersive, culturally grounded publication design, encouraging readers to explore, reflect, and connect across realms.