To Live + Die in South Auckland

Fresh Gallery Ōtara, 4 May – 15 June 2024

To Live + Die in South Auckland was an exhibition made to celebrate Fresh Gallery Ōtara’s 18th anniversary, a coming of age for a community gallery that had been a site for growing ideas, connections, friendships and influence since 2006. In a solo project by Fresh Gallery Ōtara’s founding curator, Vasemaca (FKA Ema) Tavola explores the ways South Auckland has shaped her life since moving here from Fiji aged 19, “This unique socio-political landscape has given me life-giving experiences, held my grief, fostered love and friendships, and shaped my outlook.” 

Tavola presents new textile works, digital collages and writing, immersing gallery visitors in a personal ‘expression of history’ (Robert Penn Warren). As Fresh Gallery Ōtara did when it first opened its doors in 2006, Tavola offers a new way to perceive South Auckland, its complexities and super powers. 

Exhibition install photography by Sam Hartnett.

Lanuola Mereia Aniseko (2023)
Tauira from Māngere College after floortalk, June 2024
Lanuola’s Quilt (2024)
Can I get a Witness? A Fresh Gallery Ōtara Witness Seminar, Friday 7 June 2024
T-shirt Portrait (2018/2024)
(Back) Vasemaca Tavola, Mereia Carling; (Front) Kaliopate Tavola, Lanuola Aniseko & Helen Tavola

Detail, T-shirt Portrait (2018/2024), originally constructed by Lissy Cole (2018), adapted by Vasemaca Tavola (2024).

Echo (2024)
For Women Who Run With The Wolves (2024)
Natavasara (2006/2024), photography by Vasemaca Tavola, hand rolled twine by Mereia Carling
Southside Calling (2024)
EFESO 274 (2024) by Czarina Wilson in collaboration with Vasemaca Tavola
Read more here
Click here for photos from the exhibition opening on Arts Diary
“To Live + Die in South Auckland” Exhibition Room SheetDownload