Fatu Feu’u is a leading figure of contemporary Pacific arts in New Zealand. He is considered as ‘the first painter and printmaker to bridge the cultural traditions which exist in Samoa and New Zealand’(1). Inspired by the diversity of his cultural experiences and knowledge of Pacific art forms, Feu’u has established a distinctive visual language inspired by Polynesian art forms such as tatau (tattoo), siapo (bark cloth), ietoga (fine mat), lashing, carving and ceremonial mask making(2). He incorporates ancient symbolism in his work while using contemporary mediums to maintain a ‘visual continuity for Samoan culture within Aotearoa/New Zealand’(3).

‘Fatu Feu’u’s art functions as va’aomanu- vessels of knowledge – that contain evocations of memory, migration and reconciliation’(4). Invariably Feu’u’s work communicates narratives from Samoan oratory traditions. Oratory traditions were and still are an essential part of traditional Samoan culture allowing for allegories and legends to be passed from generation to generation.

In this manner, each of Feu’u’s works conveys a story to be passed to the viewer. As seen in his work, Ole Lau Tamanu 2004, Feu’u incorporates Samoan text across the canvas. The text is accompanied by characteristic motifs such as the four- petalled frangipani flower, the frigate bird, tuna fish and ceremonial masks. These reoccurring forms are often used to express a variety of meanings depending on their context(5). The frangipani is influenced by the generalized flower form seen in Samoan siapo cloth which is generally made by female makers. For this reason the frangipani flower comes to represent the female form. The red tuna and frigate bird that commonly feature in Feu’u’s work are often representative of physical and spiritual journeys. The cross-hatching is reminiscent of customary lashing techniques used frequently to bind wood and stone for construction. These bindings techniques represent conceptual and spiritual knowledge. In Fatu’s work, the geometric patterns are part of the story telling process. Feu’u’s works are central to his cultural affirmations. As Feu’u states, ‘I want my work to look like my culture’(6).

1.Ron Brownson, ‘Fatu Feu’u: O le tautai Samoa’ Auckland Art Gallery, 2002.

2.Kate Gallagher, ‘Fatu Feu’u: O le tautai Samoa’ Auckland Art Gallery, 2002.

3.Ibid

4.Ibid

5.Ibid

6.Ibid