Lalaga Pasifika 2022 at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery / Len Lye Centre

Kia orana, Noa’ia, Talofa lava, Mauri, Mālō e lelei, Tālofa, Ni Sa Bula Vinaka, Fakaalofa lahi atu, Mālō ni, Nau Mai Haere Mai, and warm Pacific greetings.

On Saturday May 28th 2022,  the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and the Ngāmotu Pacific community participated in a day of art and culture recognising and celebrating Pacific arts in our community.

We heard from Pasifika artists and thought-leaders on the future of Pacific arts in Taranaki, learnt traditional weaving techniques in workshops, enjoyed dance performances, live tatau demonstrations and much more on this Pasifika-packed occasion.

Lalaga is a pan-Pacific concept meaning ‘to weave’ or ‘woven’. In this context the event brought together different strands of Pasifika culture expressed through art forms – both traditional and contemporary – within the unique setting that is Taranaki.

Lalaga was an opportunity to ‘get to know’ each other, inspired by the physical process of weaving, which creates a platform that allows talanoa (conversations) to take place – to build relationships and shape the future.

This inaugural event marked a new chapter for Pasifika creative arts within the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery in Ngāmotu, Taranaki.

6:26                                                                                                                                6/12/23