Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air
Vunilagi Vou, a South Auckland art gallery is continuing its efforts to bring Moana Pacific artists together through its ‘VV First Fridays’ event series.
The initiative, which was launched earlier this year, aims to create a supportive network for Moana Pacific artists to connect, share skills and inspire each other.
Gray shared her thoughts on the partnership and the initiative’s kaupapa, saying, “The aim is to create a safe space for Moana Pacific arts communities to connect with other creatives and explore the potential of their work.”
This is accomplished through monthly gatherings that take place on the first Friday of the month, from February to November 2023, funded by Creative New Zealand’s Pacific Arts programme.
VV First Fridays recently partnered with Papua New Guinean arts group Nambis Events for its April offering.
The workshop, which was a follow-up to a similar one held by Nambis Events, focused on teaching attendees about beading techniques used in PNG bilas or adornment. The partnership was a huge success and offered participants the opportunity to expand their skills and knowledge in the field.
Attendee Elaine Pokarop showed her gratitude for the workshop saying, “Such a good evening of beading. Thank you to Vunilagi Vou for hosting this workshop, Julia for teaching, Creative NZ for funding and those who came along to share in a little bit of our Pakai/bilas making.”
With five more events scheduled for the remainder of 2023, the VV First Fridays series promises to be an invaluable resource for Moana Pacific artists looking to connect with others in their field and expand their skills and knowledge.
