Alexis Neal graduated from Auckland University, Elam School of Fine Arts with a Bachelor of Fine Arts and Post Graduate Diploma in 1997 and completed a master’s degree in Fine Art Media at the University of London, Slade School of Fine Arts in 2000. Alongside her art practice Alexis has held tutoring positions in both academic and community institutions, working with the wider community.
As a practicing artist her work has predominantly looked at the duality of artefacts, exploring her mixed heritage, creating personal narratives that act as a portal to the past. Her studio practice is interdisciplinary, combining print, weaving in many forms and installation, addressing Tikanga Māori traditions within a contemporary context. The combination of these interests has made her push the print medium into three dimensions, weaving works and compiling multiple layers of colour and patterning, referencing the weaves of raranga whakairo/weaving patterns.
The exploration of cultural identity, the value of history and the complexities of human connection are contemplated, to show how artefacts can be both personal adornment and remnants of material culture. Here, the Māori story is rendered with contemporary materials. It’s a simple, effective weave. It is social and personal, cultural, and human. It includes you.