Tapa collaboration with Tongan and New Zealand artists. 

Tongan tapa cloth paintings created by local contemporary artists in an international collaboration with New Zealand artists were displayed at the New Zealand High Commission in Nuku'alofa last week.

The successful “Ko e Hala Hangatonu” (Straight Road) exhibition, led by New Zealand artist Dame Robin White and Tongan-New Zealand artist Ruha Fifita, included accompanying works titled “Kainga” by three On-the-Spot artists, Tanya Edwards, Luisa Vea Fonua, and Elena Noyes.

The main theme was inspired by the traditional Hala Paini motif representing a road of pines leading to the Royal Palace. Dame Robin White and Ruha Fifita worked with ngatu experts from Havelu and Tongatapu, with support from Langafonua ‘a Fefine.

The New Zealand High Commissioner to Tonga, Mr Mark Talbot said they were honoured to showcase the collaborative work. “I am proud to support this initiative, which celebrates the close ties between New Zealand and Tonga and showcases the artistic and cultural heritage of Tonga."

The Ko e Hala Hangatonu exhibition opened as part of the Auckland Arts Festival in March.

Dame Robin White’s work was also exhibited in Tonga last year as part of the Kermadic Exhibition. Her work has been exhibited in major galleries across New Zealand as well as around the world.