'Plastic and synthetic materials have been used by Tongan communities in the diaspora to create their traditional crafts and adornments when the natural, fresh, colourful materials they have in the islands weren't available. From early in my practice, I would use what florals I'd have in my surrounding environment and experiment with different mediums. My current practice isn't any traditional way of making but is very much inspired by that traditional art form.'
Sione Tuívailala Monū, born in 1993 in Auckland, New Zealand, is an interdisciplinary artist of Tongan descent. They divide their time between Canberra, Australia, and Auckland, New Zealand, working across various mediums including photography, moving-image, fashion and adornment, performance, and drawing. Their work delves into themes of identity, family, and the Pasifika queer experience in the diaspora.
A significant aspect of Monū's practice involves the Tongan fine art of flower design, known as nimamea'a tuikakala. Traditionally, this art form utilizes fresh tropical flowers, but due to their scarcity in Aotearoa (New Zealand), Monū adapts by using vibrant plastic flowers sourced from local shops. This approach not only honors cultural traditions but also reflects the adaptability inherent in diasporic life.
Monū's work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions across New Zealand and Australia. Notable solo exhibitions include Stories, City Gallery Wellington Te Whare Toi, 2023; Queer Encounters, Art Gallery of New South Wales, Warrane Sydney, 2023; Kindred: A Leitī Chronicle (w/ Manu Vaeatangitau), Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, 2022; Declaration: A Pacific Feminist Agenda, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, 2022; 'Ao Kakala Ōtautahi, SCAPE Public Art Season 2021, Ōtautahi Christchurch, 2021, and Leitī, Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts, 2021.
In recognition of their contributions to the arts, Monū received the 2024 Emerging Pacific Artist Award from Creative New Zealand.