Lucia Hemara and Melodownz [Māori Visual Artist/Hip-Hop Artist] - Altbays Table Talk #230

ALTBAYS

ALTBAYS Table Talk 230 – Lucia Hemara and Melodownz (Māori Visual Artist/Hip-Hop Artist)

Welcome to the Altbays Table Talk (Feat. Lana Garland and Leo Magri)

Lucia Hemara is a Māori visual artist raised in Tamaki Makaurau and born into a whanau where artistic talent flows through generations. Her mother, a skilled pattern maker with over 30 years in the fashion industry, and her father, a portrait/visual artist who works in the jewellery trade, laid the foundation and helped significantly shape her artistic journey.

Lucia contributed her talents to TONI&GUYNZ and Stephen Marr Hairdressing; both recognised leaders in fashion hair styling. This experience honed her skills and provided a platform for exploring the dynamic intersections between fashion, beauty, and visual arts. Lucia worked on photoshoots behind the scenes as a clothes stylist and was in front of the camera as a model from time to time. Her exploration of the creative realm extends to behind-the-scenes work in the film industry and even a stint at acting, where her unique presence captivated various projects.

Lucia balances her artistic pursuits with the joys and responsibilities of motherhood. Raising two daughters: a toddler and a 15-year-old.

Adding another layer to Lucia's vibrant canvas is her partnership with Melodownz, a prominent figure in the Aotearoa hip-hop scene.

Lucia's visual artistry deeply connects her cultural heritage and personal experiences.

Melodownz was raised in Avondale by his Samoan Catholic grandmother, English grandfather and his mother.He has Samoan, Pākehā and Ngāpuhi heritage. Melodownz debuted as a musician in 2013, composing reggae/hip-hop songs inspired by his upbringing He released his debut album Beginners Luck in 2014, and followed this with an extended play as half of the Young Gifted and Broke hip-hop duo Third3ye alongside Angelo King, 3P (2016).

In 2017, Melodownz released the hip hop EP Avontales and in 2018 released two projects: a collaboration EP High Beams with IllBaz and Raiza Biza, featuring musicians including Teeks and Che Fu,and the double-EP Melo & Blues. Melodownz won the award for Most Promising Artist at the 2019 Pacific Music Awards.

In 2020, Melodownz began Kava Corner, a YouTube interview series where Melodownz interviews New Zealand media personalities and celebrities such as broadcaster John Campbell, boxer Joseph Parker and musician Benee while sharing kava.He was nominated for the Breakthrough Artist of the Year award at the 2020 Aotearoa Music Awards.

They come to the Altbays Table Talk to chat about perspective on Aotearoa's creative and cultural landscape, family dynamics, and much more!

ALTBAYS Table Talk invites awesome people to have an honest, laid-back conversation. Our platform focuses on bringing communities together and thrive.