In Toronto with Graham Tipene 🇳🇿
When I met Graham, I’ll be honest… I just saw a man with a face tattoo.
I didn’t know much about Māori culture at the time. Later that same day, I went online and learned more… and it completely changed how I see it.
What he’s wearing is called tā moko.
It’s not just ink. It represents identity, ancestry, and personal story. Every line has meaning, connected to who you are and where you come from.
Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Haua, Ngāti Manu) is a respected Tā Moko artist. He has worked on major public projects across Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), helping bring Māori culture into the city through art and design (source: Auckland Art Gallery website).
If you want to learn more about him, just search his name online.
After posting the first video, I also realized how strong and proud the Māori community is, no matter where they are in the world.
#streetportraits #talktostrangers #streetphotographers #māori #maoritattoo
A hidden gem in the centre of Toronto.
I first visited this place back in March 2025, and it honestly felt like stepping into another world. Books are stacked everywhere, and Don seems to know something about just about everything.
We ended up chatting for nearly an hour, and after I mentioned that I’m into photography, he showed me a private section that not everyone gets to see.
If you enjoy books, history, and discovering unique spots in the city, this place is definitely worth a visit.
#portraits #booklovers #hiddengem
153/300 - In Toronto with this quartet
They were on their way to the Raptors game
#streetportraits #fashiontoronto #torontoportraits #streetphotographer
