Benjamin Akuila

Artwork Statement

During travels back to The Islands, Benjamin Akuila was drawn to a particular kato (bag) stall in the Talamahu Market in Nuku'alofa, Tonga. This stall contained many kato, adorned with traditional patterning, symbols, and motifs inspired by traditional and authentic koloa (art practices/ treasure).

These bags are often quick to produce and sell and are mainly seen under the arms of tourists but never seen in the village. These objects prompted Akuila to think of the ways cultural authenticity is signified, commodified and consumed.

Katologue explores how koloa is re-contextualised to consider new audiences, materials and spaces, with a focus on contemporary kato. In response, Akuila reimagines kato in ceramic wall tiles and sculptural reproductions, adorned with charms of porcelain, raffia, and shells from 'Oholei.

Through the re-presentation of historically erased Goddess, Hikule'o, mask carvings, kato, and koloa in unexpected materialities, this body of work aims to honour the resilience and adaptability of Tongan art practices.