Michael Bradley’s Puaki: Unveiling Māori culture at Xposure 2025

Sharjah 24: Michael Bradley, a photographer from New Zealand, is known for his work on tā moko, the Māori facial tattoos. His latest exhibition, Puaki, dives into the cultural meaning behind these tattoos. The title Puaki means “to emerge, reveal, or give testimony,” reflecting the Māori belief that everyone has a tā moko beneath their skin, waiting to be unveiled.

Earning Trust and Preserving Traditions: The Challenges Faced

At Xposure 2025, Bradley shared the challenges of photographing people with tā moko. Gaining his subjects' trust was crucial. He used both the wet plate collodion process, which obscures tattoo details, and digital photography, which captures them in full clarity, offering a complete view of the subjects.

A Portrait of Māori Identity

Puaki centres on the Māori people and their rich tradition of tā moko. Bradley believes portraiture provides an opportunity to deeply engage with a person’s face, allowing viewers to truly understand the significance of the tattoos and appreciate Māori culture. The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the deeper meaning of tā moko, leaving with a greater respect for its importance.