USE OF ARTSDIARY PHOTOS

© 2019 Sait Akkirman, including all photographs.

Rowena Rooney - Masi in my Blood

Daren Kamali and Inise Eremasi - The Ulumate Project

Railala Gade - Nakilamai Creations

Rowena Rooney - Masi in my Blood

Daren Kamali & Inise Eremasi - The Ulumate Project

Ulumate or "Dead Head" was the ancient practice of wig making by indigenous Fijians,
over 200 years ago. Normally practised during the time of mourning, the
drau-ni-ulu (hair) is cut and made into a wig then worn until the hair beneath
grows back. The Ulumate Project has been 21 years in the making and this
exhibition will feature the research and journey the artists have taken.

As a young child on the island of Moce, artist Railala Gade was brought up surrounded by
the making of Masi (Fijian barkcloth). As she grew older, making Masi became a way
to earn a living for the artist and she would eventually learn to make and design
beautiful pieces for herself using specific patterns from her island. This exhibition
explores the unique patterns and knowledge specific to the Moce region.

masi (tapa cloth) and traditional dyes

Railala Gade - Nakilamai Creations

Masi in my Blood contains a show of contemporary artworks that tell the story of how
Masi and Masi designs were woven into the practice of New Zealand born Fijian artist
Rowena Rooney. Her personal connection with Masi, through passed-on tradition,
culture and language can be seen in these recent pieces, with elements drawing
from the artist's Melanesian roots.

fused glass and fibre paper plates x2 | white ceramic tiles, black enamel on-glaze,
black sanded grout

fused glass and fibre paper plate

white masi, paper, dye, paua

fused glass, coconut sinnet

queen palm leaves and acrylic paint