Tala ‘O e Kumete - Part of ArtsLab: Overflow

Tala ‘O e Kumete

By Elijah Lemusuifeauali’i

Mentored by Sisi’uno Helu

Tala ‘O e Kumete is a gallery exhibition that expands on the personal experiences of artist & carver, Elijah Lemusuifeauali’i and his journey of exploring Pacific knowledge, with specific focus on stories and carving of Kumete/ Tanoa. It tells “Stories of the Kumete” to share and feed other Pasifika diaspora who, like him, are eagerly waiting, hungry for knowledge. 

Born and raised in the diaspora, where access and availability to Pacific ancestral knowledge can often be scarce, Tala ‘O e Kumete gives insight into one of many experiences that offered Lemusifeauali’i a unique opportunity for discovery - the melodic and intellectual space of the Faikava.

While the faikava served as a vessel to his learning pursuits, ‘Ava (Kava, Piper methysticum) was the medium to meaningful conversations and connection. Combined with carving, academic and cultural mentors, Tala ‘O e Kumete highlights a vital component to his cultural development - the Kumete/ Tanoa.

*A free exhibition of the carvings opens: 17/4/26 7-8pm and 18/4/26 12-8pm*

SCHEDULE:

Friday 10th April: 5pm-7pm Carving Workshop

Saturday 11th April: 8:30pm-9:15pm Live Performance

Times listed above are specific performances and workshops from the artist.

Adult $30 || Concession $25 || Shopfront Member $15

WHAT IS ARTSLAB? 
Artslab is Shopfront's flagship Emerging Artist program where seven trailblazing creatives are given six months to make an original work. Expect theatre, dance, installation, puppetry, film, and opera that will reframe what performance can be.

During the two-week festival of their new works, visit the industry networking event-- a must for any emerging artist ready to make waves, spark connections, and joing the next generation of creative voices.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

• ARTSLAB: OVERFLOW INDUSTRY NETWORKING EVENT - Saturday 11th April
  A free event for Emerging Artists to connect with professionals in the industry as part of the ArtsLab: Overflow Festival

Cover Image by Joshua Morris