The design of Bruce and Betty takes inspiration from the Māori art of whakairo carvings to tell the story graphically. These are completely original illustrations with no elements taken directly from Māori art. We wanted to give a cultural context to the design and explain the inspiration. In Māori culture the term ‘whakapapa’ is used to describe lineage and genealogy. However, the term can also be used to the act of giving a cultural context to Māori-inspired artwork. This series of graphics offers an explanation and meaning of their use.

Thalita Alves is a writer for Global Voices, an international community of writers, translators, academics and digital rights activists. In this article here, she explains considerations around the use of Māori motifs and inspired artwork: “Kirituhi is the official name for a Māori-style tattoo either created by or made for a non-Māori person. The name comes from the words kiri (skin) and tuhi (to write, to adorn or to decorate). These custom-made designs are inspired by traditional conventions. Anyone can get kirituhi, no matter where they come from or their cultural upbringing.”

FULL LINK TO RASCALS BLOG POST HERE:
https://rascalsbrewing.com/bruce-and-betty-the-new-rascals-beers/