24 Aug 2023
Jenn, a Samoan/Irish visual artist from Papaioea, Palmerston North, will spend three months working on a solo exhibition called NAFANUA, A Savage Star Seed.
This pilot residency was developed under our Pacific Arts Strategy, in partnership with Palmerston North City Council (PNCC) and aims to help nurture and strengthen Pacific-led arts in the Manawatū region.
Jenn works primarily as a painter and tatau (traditional Pasifika tattoo) artist, but for this exhibition she’ll create using the mediums of illustration, and uku (clay) sculpture. Jenn will also include opportunities to network with other artists and offer open days so the public can engage with her creative process.
Jenn says Fa’a Samoa and Te Ao Māori are the core inspiration for her creative process.
“Art is a way for me to fully embrace the true essence of my culture and honor the sacred spaces that connect our past, present and future,” she says.
“This kaupapa inspired me to step out of my artistic comfort zone – and also to cultivate a creative space that inspires other artists to pursue their own creative journey.”
Anton Carter, Group Manager – Community Services at PNCC says he’s grateful for the opportunity to partner with Creative New Zealand to enable support this residency.
"Time and money are two of the most important elements for artistic development, and this project will be a catalyst for further development of Pacific arts in Palmerston North and the wider Manawatū region,” he says.
Erolia Ifopo, Creative New Zealand’s Mana Pasifika Navigator, says the Palmerston North Pacific Residency aligns with the Tagata, Vā and Vaka pou of the Pacific Arts Strategy.
“This residency is an example of our commitment to the talented Pasifika creatives living and working in the regions, and to celebrate opportunities that arise from new strategic partnerships,” Erolia says.
“We’re super excited for Jenn to have the time and space to be the ‘freestyling, free-spirited' creative she describes herself as, and develop and explore new dimensions to her work.”
The residency will run from September to December 2023.
Media inquiries contact esther.lees@creativenz.govt.nz
CATEGORIES: Fellowships awards and residencies Latest news and blog
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