The Pataka Museum of Arts and Cultures in Porirua will host Ngatu Tu’uli – the Past is Now, an exhibition by contemporary Tongan artist Kulimoe’anga Stone Maka. Based on the sacred Tongan ngatu ‘uli (black tapa), Kulimoe’anga Stone Maka’s works are beautifully painted large-scale abstract pieces on tapa and canvas. Adapting traditional ngatu ‘uli techniques, Maka makes his black paint by collecting smoke from candlenut seeds, a painstakingly long and slow process. He also creates his own pigments from red clay and the bark of mangroves and draws using smoke, creating richly textured works. The public is invited to view the Tongan ngatu ‘uli (black tapa) and the innovative and dynamic art-making techniques that Maka uses when exploring this sacred and traditional Tongan art form. The exhibition runs from 19 February to 8 May, 2011 at the Pataka Museum. (Kulimoe’anga Stone Maka, Tu’angatu, Image courtesy of the artist).
