Paintings & Illustrations
Tūtūpakanava
Inspired by the incense lighting of many Asian cultures and the burning of dried bundled coconut spathes to celebrate the birthday of Tonga’s ruling monarch, this piece honors the many Pasifika leaders, mentors, and loved ones who championed our families and communities for over 200+ years in these coast Salish territories. Commissioned by Radio Station KEXP-FM.
Medium: Digital Illustration
Fakatotofu
Equitable distribution, which is the closest translation I could think of, is a time honored practice known to Tongan people as “Fakatotofu.” This is achieved when distribution of resources remains harmonious and just. Small CBO’s often function within an eco-system tailored to the marginalized communities they serve locally. Meanwhile, large regional nonprofits seem to consistently reap the benefits of big grant funding with very little of those monies going back to the small aforementioned CBO’s. The title is an aspirational one given the current state of nonprofits. Commissioned by Seattle Public Health King County.
Medium: Digital Illustration
Kimu’a-Lolotonga-Kimui
This piece reflects the interchangeable nature of the past, the present, and the future especially in light of a global pandemic. Our ability to relate to one another has shifted in ways we may not yet understand for years to come. The patterned background is an homage to an era since passed though there is much still to look forward to if we continue to lean in to one another. Commissioned by the National Conference on Race & Ethnicity.
Medium: Digital Illustration
Resilience
Inspired by the Pasifika Youth and Communities who showed up to support each other at the onset of the COVID Pandemic. Stylistically influenced by the Tongan barkcloth (ngatu) that was a steady presence in the artist’s childhood. Commissioned by Seattle King County Public Health
Medium: Digital Illustration
Tahi’i Toa
This abstract interpretation is inspired by the Tongan proverb Hange ha tahi’i Toa. It can be directly translated to mean “Like an aged Toa/Ironwood Tree.” The metaphor describes an immensely fortitudinous individual of sturdy forbearance likened to the aged and hardened Toa in its fully grown state.
Medium: Digital Illustration
Those Before Us
This private commission is a dedication to Ancestors always watching over us.
Medium: Acrylic and Masi (Fijian BarkCloth) on 48” x 24” Wood Canvas Board
Maui Toutai Fenua
Maui the boy, apathetically eases his fishing net into the sea in hopes of fishing up a new island though he remains oblivious to the loving bounty all around him. This was the first piece I did following the death of my beloved mother in 2017. It was as much in her honor as it was to bring me back to the Arts.
Medium: Ink (11” x 14”)
Oro
On the island of Tahiti, Oro was the son of Ta’aroa, and the god of War. Legend says he descended to Earth on a rainbow in search of a wife with the help of his sisters. He is depicted here in honor of that legend. Commissioned by Te Fare o Tamatoa Dance Academy. | June 2018
Medium: Ink and Paint Pens (11” x 14”)