Navigating New Horizons

This new generation of artists from Niue, Samoa, Tonga, the Cook Islands, and New Zealand have come together to present a dynamic showcase of contemporary Moana / Pacific art in the UK for the very first time. With vibrant colours, bold forms, and a strong nod to their respective cultures, these works offer us a glimpse into current art practices, alongside a shared oceanic heritage. From the rhythmic patterns of traditional motifs to fresh interpretations of mythological figures, this exhibition breathes new life into ancient stories.

Central to these cultures is their remarkable seafaring history. The people of the Moana region – long recognised as brilliant navigators – traversed vast oceanic expanses using only the stars, winds, and currents for guidance. This sense of awe-inspiring exploration is firmly embedded in the exhibited works: all of which resonate with a spirit of curiosity and adventure that still continues to shape Pacific identity today.

Beyond celebrating their ancestry and heritage, the artists also shine a light on resilience and cultural displacement – Most of the artists were brought by their parents to New Zealand as kids; seeking out work, and ultimately a better life for their whanau. This sense of diaspora, of never quiet ‘fitting in’ can be felt in some of these works. Whether through hand-stitched motifs, painting, traditional black tapa, photography, or drawing, each artwork asserts a deep connection to memories of both place and community. Issues of sustainability, social change, and cultural reclamation also emerge tying centuries of heritage to pressing contemporary concerns.

Yet, despite these weighty ideas, the show brims with energy, power and optimism. The work has stature, as well as soul. In this way, each work serves as a testament to the Pacific’s ever-evolving story, bridging tradition with innovative new insights and perspectives.

Ultimately, this exhibition is a call to journey alongside these artists as they chart new courses for Moana/Pacific art. By honouring the past while forging a path toward the future, they remind us of the region’s enduring legacy of hope, creativity, and discovery.

Scott Lawrie
January 2025.