A new exhibition in Auckland will explore Samoan fa'afafine experiences in the 21st century through a variety of creative media. Fa'afafine literally translates as "in a manner of a woman". The term is broadly used among Samoans to describe individuals who are gifted with the dual qualities of men and women - and do not fit into the western binary oppositions of gender and sexuality. The first of its kind exhibition, to be held, opens tomorrow evening in Ponsonby Road's Artstation with an official address by The Honourable Luamanuvao Winnie Laben MP. Opening performances include DJ Leilani, Cindy of Samoa, Hamo Kane, Dan Taulapapa McMullin and Pacific Expressions Dance Troupe. The artists present work in a range of media from costume, sound installation and photography, to painting, sculpture and video works. Curated by Shigeyuki Kihara, and held until 29 October, the exhibition features a variety of interpretations and opens a dialogue between fa'afafine (insider) and non fa'afafine (outsider) Samoan artists. It explores how each relates to the ancient ideas of Samoan fa'afafine identity and experience in today's society. Artists who reflect a direct engagement with the Samoan fa'afafine community through family connections, social, professional or political involvement include Dan Taulapapa McMullin, Reverend Mua Strickson Pua, John Ioane, Nicholas Netzler, Lisa Taouma, Nanette Lelaulu, Lindah Lepou and Shigeyuki Kihara. The exhibition receives funding from Auckland City Council's Creative Communities, and is held in conjunction with Love Life 2; Sexual Minority Groups of Pacific Island Origins Fono 2007 – a conference organised by the New Zealand Aids Foundation at the Manukau Marae in Mangere from today until 21 October. 'Measina Fa'a Fafine; the third eye, the third space' 19 - 29 October 2007 Opening 6.30pm, Friday 19 October 2007 Artstation, 1 Ponsonby Road, Newton, Auckland. Ref: Artstation (m)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Thursday, 18th October 2007 - 3:18pm