Jay Davis (liljwd, ToiOra Moko)

Te Ātihaunui-ā-Pāpārangi, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Porou

Born, raised, and based in Murihiku, Jay Wiremu Davis is a former tauira of Te Wharekura ō Arowhenua — the place that introduced him to Toi Māori and laid the tuāpapa for his career in Tā Moko. Jay honours Māori cultural heritage through tā moko, large-scale murals, illustration, and design.

For many years, Jay maintained a strong presence in Tāhuna–Queenstown, working from a shared studio that was a vibrant hub for cultural exchange. During this time, his reputation grew as his tikanga — the customary practices and values of Māori culture — resonated deeply, reflected in the increasing presence of his art within the community.

Jay’s mahi now reaches across Aotearoa and overseas, shared through wānanga held in galleries, marae, and community spaces, where moko is embraced as a living taonga and personal expression of identity.

Moving fluidly between solo projects and collaborations, Jay chooses partnerships that inspire and shape his creative journey. Highlights include working with carver Steve Solomon on the waharoa at Otago Polytechnic and contributing to the Humpridge Track entranceway — a significant landscape piece for New Zealand’s 11th Great Walk.

His creative expression also extends beyond visual art. Jay has proudly performed with Ngā Hau e Whā Kapa Haka at Te Matatini, a prestigious event with deep cultural significance. He is also the artist behind the distinctive Mīharo Merch design — a depiction of a taurapa cherished for celebrating the shared Māori and Pasifika whakapapa, symbolising connection and strength across communities.