Hiapo: Motifs of Mana

Join us in celebrating Niue Language Week with a special evening of hiapo (traditional decorated cloth made from bark).

Discover the beauty of traditional Niuean patterns and motifs with Iata Peautolu, who will share his personal journey with hiapo and the stories woven into each design. This hands-on workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn, create, and take home your own small piece of hiapo.

Iata is a contemporary Moana artisan who is a practitioner of tātatau Niue, tāmoko, painting, illustration, fashion design and graphic design.

Inspired by his Māori and Niuean lineage, his solo exhibitions ‘A Noble Savage’ and ‘Son of a Savage’ feature a combination of iconography from his dual heritage and also highlight his skill as an illustrator and painter. The iconography in his work investigates migration and navigation practices from the Pacific, which he uses to develop his visual narratives within his work.

We look forward to celebrating Niue Language Week with you.