Andrea Daly: Statement

Statement as a part of 'Aotearoa Jewellery: Unmapping & Remarking' 2026

These works by Andrea Daly document a collision between the stories that permeate our cultures and her personal experiences. The works remark on, pay attention to ideologies that are meant to direct our journeys and lead to pre-determined destinations. “If you behave in this way you will marry the handsome Prince, get a mortgage because everyone/every nuclear family should buy their own house and pay down a mortgage, make sure you are getting ahead.” Individual stories from the interwoven and overlaid hum of our cultural narratives suddenly become visible when they fail to lead us to the promised outcome. 
Daly is a storyteller. Each of the works in this show are little exclamations or warnings. They are cautionary tales of paths gone askew. In recognising our dominant beliefs as just stories, we could listen and learn from other people’s. As we go through the process of unmapping and remarking, where remarking means regarding with attention, can we find alternate and more promising ways to navigate our lives in the world?