Parekowhai represented New Zealand at the Venice Biennale, where his fully carved red Steinway concert grand piano was his central work. The playable and ornately carved piano sits in contrast with Hotere's minimal and silent paintings.

This will be only the second New Zealand venue where the works in Black Rainbow have been seen together outside Te Papa.

Image: Michael Parekowhai, He kōrero pūrākau mo te awanui o te motu: story of a New Zealand river, 2011 Original Steinway grand piano (Model D), wood, brass, automotive paint, mother of pearl, pāua shell, upholstery. Purchased 2011 with the assistance of Friends of Te Papa.