Cook Island News
Homecoming for internationally acclaimed artist

It has been a homecoming of sorts for internationally acclaimed artist Peter Jean Caley who
came to Rarotonga to attend the wedding of his daughter Monique to Matt Brooks.
The connection is that Peter is a descendent from the Takitumu canoe or Tukitimu as the
New Zealand Maori call it which left Ngatangiia many centuries ago for Aotearoa. He said
that Monique just felt drawn to Rarotonga as the destination for her wedding and
honeymoon but Peter sees the hand of fate bringing his family back to their original
homeland
Peter is a renowned artist who is known for his highly symbolic yet realistic depictions of
notable people in Maoridom. His style has been described as 'inspirational realism' with the
first portrait of a lady entitled 'Ko Mauria' followed by other notables include King Tawhiao of
Tainui in a work entitled 'Wairua Tangata' and another depicting the legend of Tutanekai
and Hinemoa.
His works have been acknowledged by the Maori Queen and the New Zealand Government
as well as being given a stamp of approval entitled to eho, the official mark of authenticity
and quality for Maori made.
He has had articles in many leading news papers around the world and in New Zealand, as
well as being featured on TV1 and TV3 News, Close Up TV1, Radio New Zealand. His
private art collection leaves New Zealand to be exhibited in a USA museum in August 2006.
It was recently valued in a leading California art magazine at US$6 million. A small painting
entitled "Flutes' was sold for US$60,000 and a Gi Clee print of this was presented to Prince
Charles during a visit to Wellington.
Peter says he is from Ngai Tahu-Kati Hui Rapa and is related to Atai Ropata and is hoping
to track some of his past on this journey. For those who may be interested in more details,
please feel free to check his web site: www.caleyart.com