Danielle Renata (1999) was born in Wellington, New Zealand, she is one of four children to Kelly and Hansa Renata. Her father is Maaori, and her mother is Indian.

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After attending Catholic primary and secondary school, Dani sought to explore her identity and culture as it was not readily available in the urban world she was raised in.

In her final years of high school, Dani learnt her ancestral history through various pathways and while unearthing her culture, began to find a love for Maori art; and decided to further pursue this by attending Toihoukura in Gisborne.

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Starting her Bachelor's Degree in Maori Visual Art and Design in 2017, Danielle completed her study at Toihoukura in 2021, leaving with her Masters Degree.

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With her craft honed over the past 8 years, she brings intent and purpose to her mahi.

Beginning her moko journey in 2018, Dani learnt the tikanga and wairuatanga behind what it means to be a kaitaa, before carrying out practical mahi. She has been practicing moko full time since 2020.

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2022, Dani moved in to O'Lala Beauty Bar, working from the salon space of her cousins shop. In 2023, Dani and her cousin, owner of O'Lala opened their own tattoo studio, 'Hypnotize Studio', with the dream to create a whanau and community based environment for other creatives to practice and create.

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Danielle finds majority of her inspiration from aspects related to Te Ao Wairua, a space where faith and belief are valued and encouraged. With these influences, she attempts to portray her story through different artistic mediums ranging from paintings and drawings, to mirrors and constructed relief pieces.

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Danielle's mission extends beyond art; it's about inspiring and supporting rangatahi who navigate the complexities of identity. She seeks to guide them in reclaiming their roots and unlocking their greatest purpose, fostering motivation through various avenues.
 

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