Feu’u explores motifs of Pacific and particularly his Samoan culture, but with a strong modernist interpretation. His love of Picasso and the early 20th century modernists is also evident in his distinctive style – which sees him recognised as one of the leading New Zealand Pacific artists.

Over recent years, his works have expressed the rebuilding, physically and spiritually, of the tsunami which struct Samoa in 2009 – particularly the Poutasi area, where Feu’u holds chiefly status. His thoughts on life are “woven” into his canvases, with the constant use of siapo (tapa or bark cloth) designs that refer to his ancestry and heritage.

‘Waiheke Island Sway’ by Fatu Feu’u on display at ARTIS Gallery. For more information on Fatu Feu’u’s paintings contact the Gallery.