After dreaming of entering the World of WearableArt (WOW) competition for more than 15 years, Whakatāne weaver and artist Glenda Hape is preparing to see her work take centre stage as a finalist in this year’s international show.

The traditional weaver of Ngāti Pūkeko, from Poroporo, has been selected as one of just 108 finalists from 18 countries for the prestigious 2026 World of WearableArt Awards in Wellington.

Hape said her ambition began while studying at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi in 2008.

“A group of us went with our tutor to the World of Wearable Art Show, and I just found it incredible,” she said.

“I thought to myself, ‘One day I want to do that. I want to have a go’.”

It was her daughter, Sonny, who encouraged her to turn that long-held dream into reality.

“I’ve always loved creating. Even when I was working in non-creative professions, I made time for my art, often working on projects with my daughter.

“To finally fulfil my dream of having a piece in WOW this year feels incredibly special.”

As with all WOW finalists, the details of Hape’s garment remain under wraps until the show opens at Wellington’s TSB Arena on September 17.

Mindful of the secrecy surrounding the competition, she said only that the piece had demanded months of dedication.

“It has taken a lot of time, thought and heart. To have that recognised means a great deal to me.”

Hape began researching ideas just before Christmas last year, drawing inspiration from previous WOW entries while ensuring her design remained her own.

“As a weaver, I naturally looked to that part of our culture and started thinking about how I could do it and the story that comes with it.”

Her finished garment incorporates traditional weaving techniques and reflects the richness of toi Māori.

When she learned she had made the preliminary judging round, Hape was delighted.

The wait to hear whether she had progressed to the finals felt long, making the eventual phone call even more memorable.

“I was absolutely thrilled and, to be honest, a little overwhelmed. It was a wonderful surprise and a real honour to be selected.”

Known worldwide for its bold creativity and boundary-pushing designs, WOW challenged Hape to think differently.

“I’ve known about WOW for a long time and I know how outrageous and imaginative it can be.

“It really makes you think outside the box, and I enjoyed that challenge.”

WOW head of competition Sarah Nathan said the event celebrated creators from every background.

“WOW sees the work of everyday people making extraordinary things stand alongside some of the world’s most exceptional avant-garde talent,” she said.

This year’s finalists include 54 designers from New Zealand, with Hape proudly representing the Eastern Bay on the world stage.

2026 World of WearableArt Awards Show

■ Where: TSB Arena, Wellington

■ When: September 17 to October 4

■ Tickets: worldofwearableart.com