Residency exhibition Ātinga, opening 6pm, Wednesday 28th May, all welcome.
Speakers: Stephanie Vaiimene, Taja Vaetoru.
Berlin-based, Cook Islands artist Taja Vaetoru returns to Rarotonga for a month-long residency at Bergman Gallery.
During this time, Vaetoru will focus on the development of a new series of small and large-scale paintings and sculptures that continue her exploration of cultural identity, personal memory, and Pacific heritage. Their work often reflects the layered experiences of place and belonging, drawing from her connection to the Cook Islands and their wider Polynesian background.
The residency provides a period of immersion and reflection, allowing Vaetoru to engage directly with the local environment and community.
The artist states; "during the residency, I will be exploring the theme of harmony, acceptance and support within the community. I will learn from those who want to share either knowledge or material. The works will have some elements of a weaving or the combining of things.
I imagine weaving as staying true to myself within my community. Because a singular panel or string can keep its own individuality but still have the ability to bind and be woven in with others. Each panel holding their own individuality but at the same time working together to create a harmonious masterpiece that is our rich culture. I'll be exploring weaving myself back into my culture as I am, where in the past I couldn't see myself fitting."
The residency will culminate in the exhibition Ātinga, opening 6pm, May 28th at Bergman Gallery, offering an intimate and evocative insight into their evolving practice.
