Stitches of Legacy

Tihei mauri ora,

Ko Hikurangi te maunga,
Ko Waiapu te awa,
Ko Ngāti Porou te iwi,
Ko Olivier Danoy tōku matua, nō Wiwi ia.
Ko Athena Danoy tōku whaea.
I whaanau ahau i te Whenua Moemoea.
Ko Françoise Danoy tōku ingoa.

Françoise is a textile fibre artist and creative business coach whose unique background and cultural heritage inform her work in captivating and meaningful ways. Born to a Franco-Māori family in Australia and raised in America, Françoise's diverse background has given her a unique perspective on the world and a rich tapestry of experiences to draw from in her work.

With a deep passion for the fibre arts, Françoise has honed her skills over the years as a knitwear designer producing designs that are at once beautiful, intricate, and thought-provoking. They tell deeply personal stories of her experiences as a diaspora Māori that resonate and connect with audiences worldwide. Her love of colour, texture, and pattern is evident in every piece she creates, and she is always experimenting with new techniques and materials to bring her visions to life.

Drawing from the diasporic narrative of her Franco-Māori lineage and her transcontinental upbringing, Françoise's collection is an intimate exploration of identity, legacy, and the intricate tapestries of cultural memory. Each piece serves as a tactile testament, weaving together familial histories, personal journeys, and the multifaceted identity of a modern Māori woman. Through vibrant hues, meticulous patterns, and innovative techniques, Françoise invites viewers into a deeply personal world, resonating with universal themes of belonging, tradition, and artistic evolution.

Whakairo Cowl: Inspired by the artistry of Māori carvings and the finesse of Japanese lace stitches, the Whakairo Cowl bridges cultures, showcasing Françoise's talent for translating motifs across art forms.

Tapatoru Cowl: A hallmark of Françoise's knitting craft, this piece beautifully marries tāniko weaving stitches with contemporary colourwork, producing a cowl that echoes traditional patterns in a modern design.

Huhuatanga Pullover: This pullover showcases the kumara motif, a symbol of abundance and the ethos of community sharing. Through every stitch, it emphasises that true abundance lies in giving.

Once Were Weavers Shawl: A tribute to the age-old Māori weaving practices, this lace shawl intricately melds traditional techniques with modern design, resulting in a piece rich in heritage and artistry.

Mana Wahine Rua: A poignant study in portraits, capturing the essence and nuances of its subjects, reflecting both heritage and modernity.

Two Crashing Waves: A harmonious blend of traditional motifs and contemporary design sensibilities, symbolising the confluence of ancient tales and modern narratives.

Mangopare: Celebrating Françoise's inaugural tā moko, this piece, adorned with the hammerhead shark motif, pays homage to the east coast, echoing her tribal affiliations and personal journey.

Mana Wahine Ono: Pushing creative boundaries, this piece expands beyond conventional frames, inviting viewers to appreciate the vast expanse of stories waiting to be told.

Mana Wahine Whitu: A testament to Françoise's evolving artistry, showcasing detailed and intricate depictions that engage and captivate.